Parts for your 2020 Toyota Hilux-Steering bushes

2020 Toyota HiLux Steering Bushes

Based on Toyota’s workshop literature for the N80 HiLux (AN120/AN130, 2015–2020) Steering section and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue, the 2020 HiLux uses a rack-and-pinion steering gear mounted to the chassis with rubber mounting bushes (often listed as steering rack “cushions”). Reputable aftermarket catalogues also offer dedicated rack-mount bush kits for this model. So, steering bushes are relevant and fitted to the 2020 HiLux.

On the 2020 HiLux, steering bushes sit between the steering rack and the crossmember, keeping the rack positively located while isolating vibration and road harshness. They’re small, but they matter: fresh bushes help the ute track straight, feel confident on-centre, and resist knocks through the wheel over corrugations and potholes. Because the HiLux runs rack-and-pinion (not an old-school idler-arm setup), there are no idler-arm bushes to worry about—focus is on the rack-mount bushes and, secondarily, column support bushes.

Daily driving, heat, age, and any oil contamination can soften the rubber. Add bigger tyres, beach runs, towing, outback corrugations or rutted trails and they’ll wear faster. Tell-tales include a vague or wandering feel, a clunk when turning or taking off, tramlining, or uneven front tyre wear. If the rack can be levered to move in its mounts or the bushes show cracks, deformation, or mushy texture, it’s time.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to check the HiLux’s steering bushes at each service interval. A quick visual under the front, a pry-bar test for movement, and a road test over low-speed bumps will usually reveal issues. There’s no strict replacement interval, many last 80,000–150,000 km, but heavy 4x4 work can shorten that.

When replacing, owners can choose OE-style rubber for factory refinement or quality polyurethane for a slightly firmer, more direct feel and better durability off-road. During installation, support the rack, replace bushes one side at a time, and torque the mount bolts with the vehicle at normal ride height to avoid preloading. After replacement, a wheel alignment is recommended—fresh, tighter bushes can subtly alter toe and on-centre feel. It’s also a good moment to inspect tie rod ends, lower control arm bushes, and the intermediate steering shaft for play.

Look after the steering bushes and the HiLux rewards with sharper response, better stability, and tyres that wear the way they should.

• Common symptoms: on-centre wander, clunks over bumps, shimmy on corrugations, rapid or uneven front tyre wear.
• Service tip: inspect each service, replace if cracked, oil-soaked, soft, or if rack movement is detected.
• Parts choice: OE rubber for comfort, polyurethane for durability and a crisper feel.

FAQs

Does the 2020 HiLux have an idler arm or idler arm bushes?
No. The 2020 HiLux uses a rack-and-pinion steering system, so there’s no idler arm. “Steering bushes” on this model refer to the rubber or polyurethane bushes that mount the steering rack to the crossmember.

How often should the steering rack bushes be replaced?
There’s no fixed schedule. Inspect them at every service. Many last 80,000–150,000 km in normal use, but frequent off-road work, bigger tyres, or oil contamination can bring that forward.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing steering bushes?
Yes, it’s recommended. Tight new bushes can change the rack’s position slightly, which can shift toe and steering centring. An alignment locks in the best handling and tyre life.