Parts for your 2017 Mazda Cx-5-Steering bushes

2017 Mazda CX‑5 steering bushes: are they actually a thing?

For the 2017 Mazda CX‑5 (KF series), dedicated “steering bushes” aren’t a fitted or serviceable item. Technical sources including the Mazda CX‑5 (KF) Workshop Manual – Steering (Electric Power Steering) and the Mazda Electronic Parts Catalogue (Steering Group) show the rack‑and‑pinion EPS unit bolted directly to the front crossmember, with no separate, replaceable steering rack mounting bushes listed or a bush service procedure described. Any isolation or guide bushings within the steering column are integral to the assembly and not sold or serviced as standalone “steering bushes”.

Why Mazda doesn’t use external steering bushes here comes down to design. The electric power steering rack is engineered for precision and rigidity, so it mounts solidly to the subframe to keep assist torque accurate and steering feel consistent. Noise, vibration and harshness are mainly managed by the subframe mounts and suspension bushes, while any minor steering column isolators are built into the complete column. In short, the CX‑5’s steering system isn’t designed around replaceable steering bushes.

If there’s play, a clunk or vague steering on a 2017 CX‑5, the usual culprits are elsewhere. A good mechanic will look at:

• Outer and inner tie‑rod ends (ball joints/inner sockets) and rack boots
• Front lower control arm bushes and stabiliser (sway‑bar) bushes/links
• Intermediate steering shaft universal joints and column bearings
• Front strut top mounts, wheel alignment and tyre condition/pressures
• Subframe/rack mounting fasteners for correct torque and movement

Servicing advice for this model is simple: there’s no scheduled replacement for “steering bushes” because they’re not a service part. At regular services, inspect the EPS rack for damage or leaks (rare), check the rack boots, test tie‑rod end play, confirm subframe/rack fastener torque, and carry out an alignment if there’s uneven tyre wear or pull. These checks will sort most steering feel or knock complaints without chasing a non‑existent bush kit.

Technical references consulted: Mazda CX‑5 (KF, 2017–) Workshop Manual – Steering/EPS sections (rack mounting and column overview), and Mazda Electronic Parts Catalogue for KF series – Steering group (complete gear, tie rods, boots and column components listed, no separate steering rack mounting bushes catalogued).

• Does a 2017 Mazda CX‑5 have steering bushes?
  Not as a separate, serviceable part. The EPS rack bolts straight to the subframe, and any minor isolators are internal to the column or assembly.
• What causes clunks that sound like worn steering bushes on a CX‑5?
  Commonly worn outer/inner tie‑rods, sway‑bar links/bushes, or control arm bushes. Less often it’s play in the intermediate shaft or movement at the subframe mounts.
• What should be checked during steering servicing on a 2017 CX‑5?
  Rack boots, inner/outer tie‑rods, subframe/rack fastener torque, suspension bushes and links, plus alignment and tyre health.