Parts for your 2018 Ford Ranger-Steering bushes

2018 Ford Ranger steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Based on Ford service information for the T6/PX platform (Workshop Manual, Section 211‑04B Electric Power‑Assisted Steering and Section 211‑02 Steering Column), the 2018 Ford Ranger uses a rack‑and‑pinion EPAS unit that’s mounted to the front crossmember with isolator bushes. Major suspension and crossmember bushes also influence steering feel. Aftermarket catalogues from well‑known bush manufacturers list specific rack‑mount and related steering bushes for PX/PXII Rangers (2011–2019), which confirms steering bushes are fitted and serviceable on this model.

On this ute, steering bushes act like small shock absorbers between the steering gear and chassis. They control movement, filter vibration and road harshness, and keep the rack accurately located. When they’re worn, drivers often notice a dull clunk over corrugations, vague on‑centre feel, kickback through the wheel, or uneven tyre wear because the rack can shift under load.

For routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the rack mounts, steering column lower isolator, and adjacent crossmember bushes every 20,000–30,000 km or at each major service. Look for cracking, perishing, oil saturation, or visible rack movement when the wheel is rocked side‑to‑side with the engine off. Also listen for knocks over speed humps and pay attention to wandering on the highway.

If replacement’s due, the job typically involves supporting the front subframe, removing under‑trays, loosening the rack fasteners, pressing out the old bushes and installing new OE rubber or polyurethane items. On EPAS models, battery disconnection and a steering angle sensor recalibration may be required. Ford’s workshop procedures note that some EPAS rack bushings are integral to the assembly, in those cases Ford specifies replacing the complete steering gear if mount compliance is out of spec. Many Australian workshops do fit quality aftermarket bushes where appropriate—just follow torque specs and always finish with a wheel alignment.

Choosing materials comes down to usage: OE‑style rubber keeps the factory NVH balance for daily driving, while reputable polyurethane options can tighten steering feel for towing, heavier loads and off‑road work, with a minor increase in firmness. Either way, a fresh set of bushes restores confidence, keeps tyres happy, and helps the Ranger track straight on our coarse‑chip roads.

• Signs of wear: clunks, vague steering, kickback, wandering, uneven tyre wear
• Service tip: inspect at 20–30k km intervals, align after any bush replacement
• Note on EPAS: follow battery and SAS reset steps per Ford workshop procedures

FAQs

How can someone tell the steering bushes are worn on a 2018 Ranger?
They’ll usually hear a thud or clunk over potholes or driveway entries and feel looseness around centre. With the ute on the ground, an assistant can rock the steering wheel while someone watches the rack—any visible shift at the mounts points to tired bushes. Uneven inner or outer tyre wear and steering kickback over corrugations are other red flags.

Can the rack bushes be changed without removing the steering rack?
On many PX/PXII Rangers, experienced techs can support the rack and press bushes in‑situ after loosening the fasteners and lowering the crossmember splash shields. However, Ford’s EPAS workshop guidance may treat some mount bushes as non‑serviceable, if compliance is out of spec, Ford calls for replacing the complete rack. A lot of local workshops do fit aftermarket bushes where design allows—just confirm the approach for the specific VIN.

Rubber or polyurethane—what suits a Ranger that tows or goes off‑road?
Quality OE‑type rubber gives factory‑level comfort and isolation. Polyurethane tightens steering response and resists deformation under load and heat, which many owners like for towing, canopy setups and touring. Expect a touch more road feel with poly. For a daily commuter, rubber is lovely, for a workhorse or adventure build, poly is a popular Aussie choice.