Parts for your 2019 Toyota Vitz|yaris-Steering bushes

2019 Toyota Vitz/Yaris steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Based on Toyota’s own technical documentation for the XP130-series Vitz/Yaris (2011–2020) and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue for the 2018–2020 model years, the car uses an electric power–assisted rack‑and‑pinion steering gear mounted to the front crossmember with rubber cushions/bushes (often listed as “cushion, steering gear” or “bush, steering rack”). The Repair Manual’s steering components diagram shows the rack mounted via isolating cushions, while the EPC lists these cushions as serviceable items. That means steering bushes are indeed fitted and relevant on the 2019 Toyota Vitz/Yaris.

On this model, steering bushes sit between the steering rack housing and the subframe. Their job is to isolate vibration, keep the rack accurately located, and prevent unwanted movement when the wheel is loaded up in corners or under braking. When they age or split, the driver may notice a light knock over sharp bumps, a vague or wandering feel on the motorway, or a slight clunk when turning the wheel at parking speeds. Because the Vitz/Yaris uses electric power steering, any extra play from perished bushes can also make the assistance feel inconsistent or “notchy”.

Servicing advice for local Aussie and Kiwi conditions:

• Inspection interval: check the rack mounting bushes during routine services (every 10,000–15,000 km) or at each WOF/roadworthy. Look for cracks, hardening, or oil swelling.
• Symptoms to watch: front-end knock on turn-in, steering shimmy over corrugations, or altered toe after bumps. If tyre edges feather despite correct pressures and alignment, worn bushes may be contributing.
• Replacement: if any bush is cracked, oil-soaked, or allows the rack to shift, replacement is recommended as a pair. Use OEM-equivalent rubber for OE feel or reputable polyurethane if a firmer, more direct response is desired. Poly can add a touch more road feel, some may find it a tad firmer over rough chip seal.
• Procedure notes: support the rack, mark positions, and torque fasteners to Toyota specs with the vehicle at ride height to avoid preloading. An alignment is smart afterwards, as small shifts can nudge toe.
• Related checks: while in there, inspect inner/outer tie rods and the column universal joint, plus front control arm bushes. Any play compounds into vague steering.

Kept in good nick, fresh steering bushes help the 2019 Vitz/Yaris steer straight, feel planted, and keep tyre wear even — perfect for daily commuting and weekend runs alike.

Popular questions

Does the 2019 Toyota Vitz/Yaris actually have steering rack bushes?
Yes. Toyota’s Repair Manual and EPC for the XP130 series identify rubber “cushion/bush” mounts for the electric power steering rack. They’re serviceable and can be replaced if worn or damaged.

What are the signs the steering bushes need replacing on a 2019 Vitz/Yaris?
Common clues include a light clunk over potholes, a slight knock when rocking the wheel at low speed, vague on‑centre feel on the motorway, or uneven/feathered tyre wear even after alignment. Visual cracks or oil‑swollen rubber are also a giveaway during inspection.

Should they be replaced with rubber or polyurethane?
OEM-style rubber keeps the original comfort and isolation Toyota tuned in. Quality polyurethane tightens steering response and resists oil and heat better, but it can pass a little more road texture into the cabin. Choice depends on whether the owner prefers factory feel or a sharper, sportier response.