Parts for your 2018 Holden Commodore-Steering bushes

2018 Holden Commodore steering-bushes: what’s actually fitted

For the 2018 Holden Commodore (ZB, E2XX platform), steering-bushes aren’t a thing. Technical sources including GM Service Information for ZB (E2XX) — Steering System Description and Operation, the Holden/GM Electronic Parts Catalogue (Group 6.800 Steering Gear), and Opel Insignia B workshop documentation show the car uses an electric power steering (EPS) rack-and-pinion that bolts directly to the front subframe without separate, serviceable steering rack bushes. Aftermarket parts catalogues back this up by listing inner/outer tie rods and complete racks for ZB, but no rack-mount bush kits.

Why no steering-bushes? The EPS unit is designed as a rigid assembly for sharp on-centre feel and precise assist control. Isolation for noise, vibration and harshness is handled through the rack’s internal design, the column coupler, and the subframe/body mounting strategy. On older Aussie Commodores (VE/VF and earlier), rubber rack bushes were common and often replaced with polyurethane. The ZB’s European architecture moved away from that, so there’s nothing to press out or upgrade in the steering gear mounts — if the rack mount were compromised, the fix is generally repair or replacement of the rack or subframe hardware, not a bush swap.

If there’s play, knock or vague steering on a 2018 Holden Commodore, the usual suspects aren’t steering-bushes. A sensible service check focuses on:

• Inner and outer tie rod ends (free play or split boots)
• Steering column intermediate shaft/universal joints (binding or lash)
• Front lower control arm bushes and ball joints
• Stabiliser (sway) bar D-bushes and links
• Strut top mounts/bearings and front wheel bearings
• Subframe bolt torque and wheel/tyre balance or tyre wear

Practical advice for ZB owners: book a steering and suspension inspection every 15,000 km or at each service interval, keep an eye on tyre wear patterns, and get an alignment after any kerb strike or pothole hit. If the rack has to come out, expect electronic setup steps (centering and steering angle sensor learn) per GM SI procedures — not a driveway job. Because there are no steering-bushes to replace, money is usually better spent on quality tie rods, control arm bushes, and fresh stabiliser links if they’re worn, which tightens the steering feel nicely on these cars.

Popular questions about 2018 Holden Commodore steering-bushes

Do 2018 Commodores have replaceable steering-bushes?
They don’t. The ZB’s EPS rack mounts solidly to the subframe without separate serviceable bushes. Wear items you can replace include the inner/outer tie rods and the intermediate shaft if needed. If the rack itself is loose or damaged, the remedy is typically rack replacement and an EPS setup procedure.

What causes a clunk in the steering if it’s not the bushes?
Most commonly, outer tie rod ends, stabiliser links, or lower control arm rear bushes. Also check the column U-joint, strut top mounts, and subframe fasteners. Don’t forget tyres — flat spots or out-of-balance tyres can feel like a steering issue.

How often should the steering be checked on a ZB?
At every regular service or about every 15,000 km. Ask for a quick shake-down of tie rods and ball joints, a look at the sway bar hardware, and a scan for EPS fault codes. After any heavy impact, get the alignment checked sooner.