Parts for your 2021 Nissan X-trail-Steering bushes

2021 Nissan X-TRAIL steering bushes

Based on technical references for the T32-series X-TRAIL (including the Nissan X-TRAIL T32 Service Manual – ST: Steering, and the Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue for 2018–2021 models), this vehicle uses an electric power steering rack-and-pinion mounted to the front subframe with bonded rubber insulators (commonly called steering rack bushes). Nissan does not typically list these bushes as separate service parts, they’re integrated with the steering gear assembly. Independent workshop data used across AU/NZ (Autodata/HaynesPro) also shows no separate factory listing for rack-mount bushes on the T32, unlike earlier T30/T31 models.

So while a parts search might not show “steering bushes” as a standalone item, the 2021 X-TRAIL does have bushings in the steering system. Their job is to isolate vibration, keep the rack located under load, and maintain steering feel without transmitting harshness into the cabin.

Owners who are chasing a front-end rattle or vague steering on a 2021 X-TRAIL should have the rack mounts inspected as part of routine servicing. Over time, heat, oil contamination, and road impacts can harden or crack the rubber. If movement develops at the rack mounts, the steering can feel a bit loose on-centre, knock over sharp bumps, or wander on uneven roads.

• Tell-tale signs: a dull clunk through the floor on hits, inconsistent self‑centering, shimmy on corrugations, or visually perished rubber at the rack brackets.
• Checks during service: road-test on mixed surfaces, inspect rack-to-subframe mounts, verify torque on rack fasteners, and confirm the EPS has no fault codes.

Replacement options depend on parts availability. Because Nissan generally supplies the bushes with the complete EPS rack, many workshops will recommend replacing the entire steering gear if the bushes are excessively worn or the housing is moving. Some aftermarket suppliers may offer polyurethane rack-mount bush kits for certain T32 variants, if a reputable kit is available and suits the exact rack casting, it can be a cost-effective fix. Either way, the job is best handled by a professional, followed by a wheel alignment and, if required, an EPS/steering angle sensor calibration.

To help the bushes live longer, avoid soaking them with engine oil or degreaser, keep undertray/guards intact to limit splash, and have them inspected at regular service intervals—particularly if the vehicle sees rough roads or towing duty.

Popular questions

Do 2021 X-TRAILs actually have steering bushes?
Yes. The EPS rack is isolated by rubber insulators (bushes) at its mounts. Nissan typically supplies these as part of the complete steering gear, which is why they don’t appear as separate OEM parts in catalogues.

When should the steering bushes be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval. Replace when there’s visible deterioration or movement, or when symptoms like knocking and vague steering appear. A tech can confirm during a suspension/steering inspection.

Will worn steering bushes fail a WOF/RWC?
They can. Excessive play at the steering rack mounts, or a rack that shifts under load, is a common reason for inspection failure. Repair and a post-repair alignment usually sort it.