Parts for your 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer-Steering bushes

2017 Mitsubishi Lancer steering bushes — what they do and when to sort them

Based on technical references — the Mitsubishi Lancer CJ/CF Service Manual (Group 37A – Steering), the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue for CF (MY2017), and well-known aftermarket catalogues (e.g., Nolathane/Whiteline listings for CJ/CF 10/2007–2017) — the 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer does use steering bushes. Specifically, the rack-and-pinion steering gear mounts to the front crossmember with isolating rubber bushes/insulators. So, yes, steering bushes are relevant on this model.

On the 2017 Lancer, steering bushes sit between the steering rack housing and the subframe. Their job is to keep the rack securely located while soaking up vibration and harshness from rough Aussie and Kiwi roads. When they’re healthy, the car tracks straight, the wheel centres nicely, and steering feel is tidy and predictable. When they’re tired, the rack can shift under load, which turns into vague steering, a dull clunk over bumps, or a momentary change in toe when cornering or braking.

Owners chasing sharper steering feel often start here. During routine servicing, a quick inspection is easy: look for perished rubber, cracking, deformation, or witness marks where the rack has been moving. A pry-bar check with the vehicle safely supported can reveal play. If there’s movement, replace the bushes as a set. It’s common to choose OE-style rubber for comfort or quality polyurethane for crisper response, both are widely available for the CF Lancer.

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech: support the rack, remove the clamps, swap bushes, then refit and torque to spec with the vehicle at normal ride height and the wheels straight. Because any rack position change can nudge alignment, it’s smart to book a wheel alignment straight after. While in there, a mechanic will also eyeball inner/outer tie rods, the column intermediate shaft, and front lower control arm bushes — all of which can mimic similar symptoms when worn.

How often? There’s no fixed kilometre interval, as life depends on heat, age, and road conditions. But if the Lancer’s steering has gone a bit floaty, there’s a knock on turn-in, or tyres are showing odd edge wear, fresh steering rack bushes can restore the confident feel these cars are known for.

• Common signs: front-end clunk, wandering on the motorway, delayed steering response, or off-centre wheel after bumps.
• After replacement: get an alignment and recheck clamp fasteners after a short run.

FAQs

Does the 2017 Lancer actually have steering rack bushes?
Yes. The CJ/CF Service Manual and the Mitsubishi ASA parts catalogue list isolating bushes for the rack-to-subframe mounts on MY2017 cars. Whether the vehicle runs hydraulic assist (as most CFs do) or not, the rack is still mounted using bushes.

What are the usual symptoms of worn steering bushes on a CF Lancer?
Drivers often notice a light knock over potholes, vague or delayed turn-in, the car tramlining more than it used to, or slight toe change you can feel under hard braking or quick lane changes. Abnormal tyre edge wear can also show up.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing steering bushes?
It’s strongly recommended. Even if the rack goes back in the same spot, tiny shifts can change toe. An alignment locks in straight-ahead feel and protects tyre life.