Parts for your 2020 Nissan X-trail-Steering bushes

2020 Nissan X‑Trail Steering Bushes — what’s actually fitted

For the 2020 Nissan X‑Trail (T32), “steering bushes” aren’t a service item because the vehicle uses an electric power steering (EPS) rack that’s rigidly mounted to the front subframe without separate, replaceable rack‑mount bushes. This layout is shown in the Nissan X‑Trail T32 Service Manual (ST – Steering System) for the 2019–2020 model years, where the steering gear is bolted directly to the suspension member. The Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue (FAST/EPC, Group 480 – Steering) for T32 likewise lists the steering gear assembly as a complete unit, with no standalone rack‑mount bushings offered. Major aftermarket catalogues in ANZ (e.g., Whiteline and SuperPro) list control arm and stabiliser bar bushes for T32 but do not list steering rack bushes for this generation, whereas earlier X‑Trail generations often did.

Why isn’t it used? With the T32’s EPS, the assistance motor and torque sensor are integrated into the rack housing. Nissan engineers aim for precise alignment and consistent steering feel, so the rack is hard‑mounted to the subframe. Any compliance that might once have been managed by soft rack bushes is now controlled through subframe design, suspension arm bushes, and the intermediate shaft joints. Soft bushes here would introduce play, affect EPS calibration, and add variability to on‑centre feel. When play develops inside the rack on these systems, the prescribed repair is typically replacement of the rack assembly rather than pressing in new bushes.

Owners chasing a clunk, shimmy, or vague steering feel in a 2020 X‑Trail are more likely dealing with common wear items elsewhere. Sensible checks during servicing include:

• Outer and inner tie‑rod ends (play or split boots)
• Front lower control arm bushes (rear hydro bush cracking is common) and ball joints
• Stabiliser (sway) bar bushes and links
• Strut top mounts/bearings and front subframe bolt torque
• Wheel alignment and tyre condition/pressures

If the EPS rack itself has internal knock or excess free play, a complete replacement rack is usually required, followed by alignment and any required EPS calibrations as per the service manual. A well‑equipped workshop familiar with T32 will have this sorted without fuss.

FAQs

Does the 2020 Nissan X‑Trail have steering rack bushes that can be replaced?
Not as a separate service part. The T32 EPS rack is bolted to the subframe without removable rack‑mount bushes. If there’s play traced to the rack, the remedy is generally rack replacement.

What symptoms feel like “worn steering bushes” on a T32?
Clunks over bumps, vague on‑centre feel, or shimmy are more often caused by outer tie‑rod ends, front lower control arm rear bushes, sway bar links/bushes, or strut top mounts. A proper inspection on a hoist will pinpoint the culprit.

If the steering rack is faulty, what’s involved in fixing it?
Replacement of the complete EPS rack, followed by a wheel alignment and any required EPS zero‑point/angle calibrations per the T32 service manual. Some workshops may offer quality reconditioned racks, always confirm warranty and programming steps.