Parts for your 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse cross-Steering bushes

2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross steering-bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Based on technical references including the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross (GK/GL series) workshop manual (Group 37A Steering) and the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue, the 2020 model runs an electric power steering (EPS) rack that’s secured to the front crossmember using rubber insulator bushes and brackets (often noted as “steering gear mounting insulator”). So yes — steering-bushes are fitted to the 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, and they’re a relevant service item when chasing steering feel or noises.

These steering-bushes cushion the steering rack from the body, keeping the rack precisely located while soaking up vibration and harshness. They help the wheel stay true on rough roads, reduce kickback through the wheel, and keep the on‑centre feel nice and predictable. When they wear or perish, the rack can shift slightly under load, which shows up as vague or wandering steering, clunks over potholes, and an extra bit of play on turn‑in.

Steering-bushes aren’t a scheduled replacement like oil or filters — they’re replaced on condition. Most last well past 80,000 km, but local conditions (corrugations, kerb hits, road grime) and contamination (engine oil or power steering fluid from nearby leaks) can shorten their life. During regular servicing of a 2020‑Mitsubishi‑Eclipse‑Cross, it’s smart to visually check the bushes for cracks, splitting, softness, or ovalised holes, and to have a tech pry-test the rack for excess movement while someone steers left–right.

• Common symptoms: clunking over bumps, vague steering feel, tramlining, or a “thud” on quick direction changes.
• Inspection tips: look for perished rubber, oil-soaked bush material, loose rack brackets, and uneven tyre wear.
• Replacement notes: replace in pairs, torque the brackets with the vehicle at normal ride height, and book a wheel alignment if the rack or subframe position was disturbed.

For parts choice, genuine-style rubber bushes keep NVH low — great for daily driving. Quality polyurethane options can sharpen steering response and last longer, but may pass a touch more road texture into the cabin. Either way, a proper press-fit and correct bracket torque are crucial, over-tightening can crush the bush and under-tightening can let the rack walk, which is no good in Aussie or Kiwi conditions. Time-wise, expect around 1–2 hours with the right gear. If clunks persist after bush replacement, have the tie rods, control arm bushes and sway bar mounts checked — they all contribute to steering feel on the Eclipse Cross.

Popular questions about 2020‑Mitsubishi‑Eclipse‑Cross steering-bushes

Do all 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross models have steering-bushes?
Yes. Whether it’s front‑wheel drive or AWD, all 2020 Eclipse Cross variants use an EPS rack mounted with rubber insulator bushes. The design is there to control rack movement and keep noise and vibration out of the cabin, while maintaining accurate steering geometry.

How long do the steering-bushes last, and when should they be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval. Many last 80,000–150,000 km, but harsh roads or fluid contamination can age them faster. Replace when cracks, softness, or excessive rack movement are found, or if you’re chasing clunks, vague steering or uneven tyre wear that inspection traces back to the bushes.

Should I go polyurethane or stick with rubber?
Rubber is quiet and comfy, perfect for everyday commuting. Polyurethane can tighten steering response and often lasts longer, but may add a little extra road feel. If comfort is king, stay rubber. If sharper feel is the goal and a hint more NVH is fine, poly can be a tidy upgrade.