Parts for your 2022 Ford Escape-Steering bushes

2022 Ford Escape steering-bushes — what’s actually fitted

Technical service information for the 2022 Ford Escape (C2 platform, also known as Kuga) shows that traditional “steering-bushes” aren’t a separate, serviceable part on this model. The Ford Workshop Manual for the 2020–2022 Escape/Kuga EPAS system (Electronic Power Assisted Steering) details a steering gear that bolts directly to the front subframe without separate rack-mount bushes, and the parts catalog lists the steering gear as a complete assembly with no standalone rack bushes. Major aftermarket catalogues commonly used in Australia and New Zealand likewise list control arm and stabiliser bar bushes for this vehicle, but no steering rack bushes. Taken together, these sources indicate the 2022 Escape doesn’t use replaceable steering-bushes.

Why is that? Modern EPAS racks are engineered to be mounted rigidly to the subframe to sharpen steering response, support driver-assistance features, and reduce alignment shift under load. Any isolation for noise and vibration is handled within the rack assembly or through the subframe and body design, rather than with old-school, easily swapped rubber rack bushes. The steering column’s internal bushings are also built into the column and not serviced separately. If excessive play develops within the rack or column, the prescribed repair is generally to replace the affected assembly rather than fit new bushes.

Owners chasing a steering knock or vague on-centre feel on a 2022 Escape should look beyond “steering-bushes.” The usual suspects are:

• Front lower control arm bushes (particularly the large rear hydro-bush)
• Front stabiliser (sway) bar bushes and links
• Inner/outer tie-rod ends and ball joints
• Strut top mounts/bearings and the intermediate steering shaft U-joint

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect those components for cracking, fluid seep (on hydro-bushes), torn dust boots, and free play, and to road-test for clunks over speed humps or a shimmy under braking. If the steering is pulling, feels notchy, or the wheel isn’t returning to centre cleanly, a professional check of the EPAS rack and alignment is worthwhile.

Bottom line for the 2022 Ford Escape steering-bushes: there aren’t separate rack-mount bushes to replace, by design. The steering gear is a rigid, integrated unit, and steering feel is largely influenced by the suspension bushes and tie-rod joints around it. Addressing those items will usually deliver the “tight” steering most owners are after.

Popular questions

Does the 2022 Ford Escape have steering rack bushes I can replace?
Not as separate parts. The EPAS steering rack is bolted directly to the subframe with no serviceable rack-mount bushes. If there’s play in the rack itself, the typical fix is rack replacement rather than bush replacement.

What causes loose or clunky steering on a 2022 Escape if not the steering bushes?
Common culprits are worn front lower control arm bushes, tired stabiliser bar bushes/links, or play in inner/outer tie-rod ends. Strut top mounts and the steering shaft U-joint can also add noise or notchiness. A suspension and steering joint inspection usually pinpoints it quickly.

Can I fit aftermarket polyurethane steering bushes to sharpen the steering?
There aren’t polyurethane rack-mount bush kits for this model because the rack doesn’t use separate bushes. If a firmer feel is the goal, quality tyres, correct pressures, fresh control arm and sway bar bushes, and a proper wheel alignment typically make the biggest difference.