Parts for your 2020 Mazda Cx-5-Steering bushes

2020 Mazda CX-5 steering bushes: are they a thing?

For the 2020 Mazda CX-5 (KF series), steering bushes aren’t a separate, serviceable part. The vehicle runs an electric power steering (EPS) rack-and-pinion that’s bolted directly to the front subframe, and Mazda supplies the steering gear as a complete assembly. There aren’t standalone “steering rack bushes” listed for this model year in Mazda’s parts catalogue, and the factory workshop procedure for removing and installing the steering gear doesn’t call up or replace any rack-mount bushes as individual items.

Technical sources referenced:

• Mazda CX-5 (KF) Workshop Manual – Steering System: Steering Gear and Linkage Removal/Installation, EPS System Outline (details the EPS rack as a complete unit with direct mounting)
• Mazda Electronic Parts Catalogue (KF series, 2017–2021) – Steering Gear (lists the complete steering gear, inner/outer tie-rods and boots, with no separate rack-mount bushes)

Why no steering bushes? The EPS rack on the KF-platform CX-5 is designed for sharp on-centre feel and consistent assistance. That’s helped by a rigid mounting approach rather than soft, replaceable bushes. Any isolation the system needs is handled within the rack’s design and the subframe structure, not via removable rubber bushings. As a result, when owners go hunting for “steering bushes” as a maintenance item, they won’t find a genuine or typical aftermarket kit for the 2020 CX-5.

If the steering feels loose, clunky, or notchy on this model, the usual suspects aren’t “steering bushes” but other wear points. A solid diagnostic path for workshops and owners includes:

• Outer and inner tie-rod ends for play
• Front lower control arm bushes and ball joints
• Stabiliser (sway) bar D-bushes and links
• Strut top mounts/bearings
• Intermediate steering shaft/universal joints
• Rack boots for tears and water ingress

If the rack itself is worn or showing excessive internal play, Mazda’s service information directs technicians to replace the complete steering gear assembly rather than fit any rack-mount bushes. After any steering work, a quality wheel alignment and a road test on varied surfaces will help confirm the CX-5 tracks straight, returns to centre cleanly, and keeps that tidy Mazda steering feel Aussies and Kiwis expect.

Popular questions

Does a 2020 Mazda CX-5 have steering rack bushes?
No. The KF-series CX-5 uses an electric power steering rack that mounts directly to the subframe. Mazda doesn’t list separate steering rack bushes for this model year, and the workshop manual procedures don’t include replacing any. If there’s steering play or noise, look to tie-rods, control arm bushes, sway bar bushes and links, or the rack assembly itself.

Can aftermarket steering bush kits be fitted to a 2020 CX-5?
There aren’t widely supported aftermarket rack-mount bush kits for this generation CX-5 because the rack is designed to be rigidly mounted. Some universal bush products exist in the market, but they’re not specific to the KF CX-5 and can affect NVH and steering feel. For safety and compliance, stick with factory-style repairs and replace the complete rack if required.

What should be serviced instead if the steering feels vague?
Start with the basics: check tyre pressures and front wheel alignment. Then inspect outer and inner tie-rods, front control arm bushes, sway bar D-bushes and links, and strut top mounts. If all those pass and the issue remains, assess the EPS rack for internal wear or binding and follow Mazda’s guidance for rack replacement if needed.