Parts for your 2017 Toyota Avensis-Steering bushes

2017 Toyota Avensis steering bushes: purpose, checks and replacement

Technical references including Toyota TechDoc (Avensis T27 repair manual), the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue, and industry data services (Autodata/HaynesPro) show the 2017 Toyota Avensis (T27) uses electric power steering (EPS) with a rack-and-pinion mounted to the front subframe. These sources list a bush/insulator for the steering gear mounting and a support bush within the column assembly. So steering bushes are relevant and fitted to this model.

On a 2017 Avensis, steering bushes sit where the steering rack meets the subframe and within parts of the steering column support. Their job is to isolate vibration, control movement of the rack under load, and keep the steering feel tight and predictable. Because the Avensis runs EPS, there’s no hydraulic fluid to leak, instead, keeping those bushes healthy helps the motor-assisted rack deliver consistent on-centre feel and accurate tracking.

During routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect steering bushes any time the front end is up on a hoist. A tech will look for cracked rubber, excessive compliance when the rack is levered, or a shiny/oval clamp area that hints at movement. If the car shows a light knock over sharp bumps, a vague “tramlining” feel, or the wheel needs tiny corrections at motorway speeds, tired rack bushes could be part of the story (after confirming tyres, pressures, and alignment are right).

• Replacement is straightforward for an experienced workshop: support the rack, remove the clamp(s), swap the bush/insulator, then torque fasteners to the Toyota spec.
• Always book a wheel alignment after any rack movement, even if the tie rods weren’t disturbed, it’s cheap insurance for even tyre wear.
• Use quality OE or reputable aftermarket bushes. Polyurethane options can sharpen response but may pass a bit more road feel into the cabin.
• On the column side, the support bush/bearing is typically long-lived. If there’s play felt at the lower universal joint or a squeak at the column, further diagnosis per the Toyota manual is the go.
• Service interval tip: a quick check every 20,000–30,000 kilometres, or whenever front suspension work is done, keeps surprises at bay.

Done right, fresh steering bushes help the Avensis track arrow-straight, reduce nibble over coarse-chip roads common in Australia and New Zealand, and protect those pricey tyres.

Popular questions about 2017 Toyota Avensis steering bushes

Do all 2017 Avensis models have replaceable steering rack bushes?

Yes, the T27 Avensis range uses an EPS rack mounted to the subframe with an insulator/bush and clamp arrangement. Depending on build, some bushes are serviced separately while others may be supplied with the clamp. A parts lookup against the VIN will confirm the exact setup.

What symptoms point to worn steering bushes on a 2017 Avensis?

Common clues include a light clunk over potholes, a vague on-centre feel, or the need for constant micro-corrections on the motorway. After ruling out tyre issues and worn tie-rod ends, play at the rack mounts or visible bush cracking suggests it’s time to replace them.

Is an alignment required after replacing steering bushes?

It’s strongly recommended. Even if the tie rods weren’t disturbed, shifting the rack to change the bush can nudge toe settings. A post-repair alignment helps the steering wheel sit straight and protects tyre life.