Parts for your 2017 Holden Commodore-Steering bushes

2017 Holden Commodore steering-bushes

Based on technical sources, steering-bushes are indeed fitted to the 2017 Holden Commodore (VF Series II). The Holden/GM Service Information (VF Commodore Service Manual) details “steering gear insulators” that mount the rack to the front crossmember, and the GM Electronic Parts Catalogue lists these as replaceable components. Reputable aftermarket catalogues for the VE–VF platform also offer steering rack and pinion mount bush kits, confirming their use on this model. So, for the 2017 VF, steering-bushes are relevant and serviceable items.

On this Commodore, the steering-bushes (also called rack-mount insulators) sit between the steering rack and the front subframe. Their job is to isolate noise and vibration, keep the rack precisely located, and maintain on-centre feel. When they wear, the rack can shift under load, which makes the steering feel a bit vague and can introduce clunks or knocks over bumps.

Owners will usually notice a few tell-tales when the bushes are tired: a dull knock on initial turn-in or when hitting potholes, vague on-centre response, and sometimes a shimmy through the wheel. A quick workshop check involves having a helper rock the steering wheel side to side while a tech observes the rack, any visible rack movement against the cradle suggests bush wear.

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech: the rack is supported, the mounting hardware is removed, and the old insulators are swapped for fresh OEM rubber or a quality polyurethane option. Rubber preserves the factory refinement, while polyurethane can sharpen steering feel at the cost of a touch more road texture. It’s smart to replace bushes in pairs and fit new hardware where specified by GM. After refit, a wheel alignment check is recommended, and on EPAS-equipped variants, a quick steering angle sensor reset or verification may be required.

As part of routine servicing, have the steering-bushes inspected every 60,000–100,000 kilometres, or sooner if the car tows, runs larger wheels, or sees rough roads. Keeping them in good nick protects tyre wear, preserves that confident VF steering feel, and helps prevent stress on the rack mounts and subframe.

• Common symptoms of worn steering-bushes:
  • Clunk or knock when turning or over bumps
  • Vague on-centre steering or wander
  • Visible rack movement when the wheel is rocked

Popular questions about 2017 Holden Commodore steering-bushes

Do all VF Series II Commodores use the same steering-bushes?

Across the VF II range the rack mounts use insulators, but part numbers can vary with trim and steering rack type. A VIN check against the GM parts catalogue will confirm the exact bush and hardware set for a specific vehicle.

Should I choose rubber or polyurethane replacements?

For daily driving and factory NVH, OEM-style rubber is ideal. If the car sees spirited use or track days, polyurethane tightens the steering response and longevity, though it may transmit a bit more road feel into the cabin.

Will replacing steering-bushes affect my wheel alignment?

It can. Any time the rack is loosened or shifted, the toe setting may change slightly. A post-repair alignment check is recommended to keep tyre wear even and the steering wheel straight.