Parts for your 2017 Nissan Serena-Steering bushes

2017 Nissan Serena steering bushes — are they used?

For the 2017 Nissan Serena (C27), “steering bushes” aren’t a relevant or replaceable part. Nissan’s C27 Serena Service Manual (section ST – Steering) specifies an electric power steering (EPS) rack-and-pinion assembly that’s secured rigidly to the front crossmember and serviced as a complete unit. The manual notes the steering gear housing is non-serviceable, directing technicians to replace the assembly rather than individual internal or mounting components. The Nissan FAST electronic parts catalogue for C27 models backs this up by listing the steering gear assembly, inner and outer tie rods, rack boots and clamps, but no separate rack-mount cushion or bush part numbers. Major aftermarket bush suppliers and catalogues commonly used in ANZ workshops (e.g., Nolathane, SuperPro, Febest) also don’t list a steering rack bush kit for the C27 Serena, reinforcing that separate steering bushes aren’t used on this model.

That design choice isn’t unusual. With EPS, manufacturers often mount the rack solidly to the subframe (or use integrated, non-serviceable insulators) to maintain precise alignment for the torque/assist sensors and to keep steering feel consistent. NVH is tuned elsewhere in the vehicle structure, so there’s no expectation to service or replace “steering bushes” during routine maintenance.

If owners are chasing a knock, vagueness on centre, or a shimmy and have been told to look for “steering bushes,” it’s worth redirecting the inspection to the parts Nissan does intend to be serviced:

• Outer tie rod ends and inner tie rods (free play or binding)
• Intermediate steering shaft/universal joints (column play)
• Rack boots (tears, grease loss) and clamps
• Front stabiliser (sway bar) D-bushes and links – often mistaken as “steering” issues
• Lower control arm bushes and ball joints, and a proper wheel alignment

Where the EPS warning light’s on or there’s heavy/erratic assist, diagnosis should follow the ST section test flow (including DTC checks) and, if required, replacement of the complete steering gear assembly. For WOF/RWC compliance and safety, avoid modifying rack mounts or retrofitting non-genuine bushes, as this can affect EPS calibration and roadworthiness.

Popular questions

Does the 2017 Serena have steering rack bushes to replace?
No. Nissan doesn’t list separate steering rack bushes for the C27 Serena. The EPS rack is mounted rigidly and serviced as a complete unit, while tie rods and column joints are the designed wear items.

What causes a front-end knock that sounds like “steering bushes” on a Serena?
Most commonly the stabiliser (sway bar) D-bushes or links, worn control arm bushes, or play in inner/outer tie rods. Those should be inspected first before condemning the steering rack assembly.

Can polyurethane steering bushes be fitted to sharpen the Serena’s steering?
There are no reputable kits for the C27 Serena’s rack. Altering the rack mounts can upset EPS behaviour and may cause WOF/RWC issues. Focus on good tyres, alignment, and healthy tie rods instead.