Parts for your 2017 Volkswagen Amarok-Steering bushes

2017 Volkswagen Amarok steering bushes — are they used on this ute?

Short answer: no, not as a separate, serviceable part. On the 2017 Volkswagen Amarok (2H), the steering gear is a rack‑and‑pinion unit that bolts directly to the front subframe without traditional, replaceable steering rack bushes. This layout is confirmed by Volkswagen’s workshop documentation (erWin: Group 48 – Steering, “Steering gear, removing and installing”) and the official parts catalogue (ETKA, Model 2H, Group 48), which list the steering rack, stretch bolts and related hardware, but no separate rack or column “bush” components for routine replacement.

Volkswagen designed the Amarok’s steering gear to mount rigidly for better steering precision and on‑centre feel, which suits towing and load work. Any isolation of vibration is handled within the steering gear’s internal bearings, the column’s joints/bearings, and the suspension bushings rather than by external, rubber rack bushes. Where some utes (like a few Japanese models) use removable rack mount bushes to dial in compliance, the Amarok’s approach keeps the rack location fixed and stable, if mounting points or internal support wear, the repair path is generally steering gear replacement or reconditioning rather than swapping a set of rack bushes.

If the steering feels loose, wanders, or knocks over corrugations, owners should focus checks on parts that the Amarok does use and wear with age and off‑road work:

• Inner and outer tie rod ends for play
• Lower control arm bushes and ball joints
• Steering column universal joints and intermediate shaft
• Power steering system for leaks and fluid condition (where applicable)
• Front subframe/steering rack mounting bolts for correct torque and any movement

During scheduled servicing, a shop will road‑test for free play, inspect boots on the rack and tie rods, check alignment, and ensure the rack mounting hardware is tight. Any clunk traced to the rack itself typically points to internal wear, on the Amarok that’s handled by replacing the rack assembly rather than “steering bushes”.

Technical sources referenced: Volkswagen erWin Workshop Manual (Group 48 – Steering, procedures for rack removal/installation) and Volkswagen ETKA parts catalogue (2H Amarok, Group 48 Steering), both of which show a direct‑mount rack with no separate steering rack bush kits listed for service.

Popular questions about 2017 Volkswagen Amarok steering bushes

Do Amaroks have steering rack bushes I can replace?
Not as a separate service item. The Amarok’s rack mounts solidly to the subframe with bolts. If there’s movement or internal knock in the rack, the usual fix is rack replacement or professional reconditioning, not pressing in new bushes.

What should be checked instead of steering bushes on an Amarok?
Have a technician inspect inner/outer tie rods, control arm bushes, ball joints, steering column U‑joints, and the condition/torque of the rack mounting bolts. An alignment and tyre condition check also help diagnose wander or tramlining.

Can aftermarket “steering bushes” be fitted to reduce vibration?
Aftermarket bush kits are common for other utes but are not typical or listed for the Amarok’s direct‑mount rack. Adding non‑OEM isolators can affect steering geometry and rack location, most workshops will avoid that and address vibration via tyres, alignment, and suspension bushes instead.