Parts for your 2022 Ford Ranger-Steering bushes

2022 Ford Ranger steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

Yes, steering bushes are relevant on the 2022 Ford Ranger. Ford’s Workshop Manual (WSM 211‑02 Steering System for T6/T6.2) details a rack‑and‑pinion EPAS (electric power‑assisted steering) unit mounted to the front subframe with isolator bushes. Ford parts catalogues list the rack mounting insulators, and leading aftermarket catalogues (e.g., Nolathane and SuperPro) publish replacement steering rack mount bush kits for 2011–2022 Ranger models, confirming their use on the platform.

On this Ranger, the steering bushes isolate the EPAS rack from the chassis to knock down vibration and noise while keeping the rack precisely located. That balance matters off‑road and on corrugations, where harshness can creep in, and on‑road when towing or loaded, where precise on‑centre feel keeps it tracking straight.

Over time, factory rubber bushes can compress, harden or tear. When that happens, drivers often notice looser steering feel, a light clunk on turn‑in or over potholes, or a shimmy through the wheel. It can also show up as vague on‑centre behaviour or accelerated, uneven tyre wear. If the Ranger sees plenty of gravel, beach work or heavy towing, the wear rate can go up.

As part of servicing, it’s smart to:

• Inspect the rack mounts every 20,000 km or at each service for cracking, oil swelling, or movement under steering load.
• Check fastener torque and look for witness marks that suggest the rack has shifted on the subframe.
• Road test for clunks, steering kickback, or wander, especially on corrugations.

Replacement is straightforward for a workshop: support the rack, remove the mount hardware, swap bushes, then refit and torque to spec. Given the EPAS, battery-off practices and keeping the column locked are recommended to protect the steering angle sensor. A wheel alignment should follow to make sure it tracks straight and the driver assist systems behave. Where the OEM doesn’t supply bushes separately for certain VIN ranges, quality polyurethane kits are an option to restore precision and longevity, particularly for touring rigs.

With fresh bushes, the 2022 Ranger feels more planted, quieter through the cabin, and more confidence‑inspiring when loaded or towing — exactly what owners expect from a modern ute.

Popular questions about 2022 Ford Ranger steering bushes

Do all 2022 Rangers use steering rack bushes?
Yes. The T6/T6.2 EPAS rack is mounted to the front subframe with isolator bushes. This is documented in Ford’s WSM Section 211‑02 and reflected in parts listings and aftermarket catalogues covering 2011–2022 Ranger models.

What are the signs the steering bushes need replacing?
Common signs include clunks over bumps, a vague or wandering feel on the highway, shimmy through the wheel, and sometimes uneven tyre wear. If the rack can be seen to shift slightly on the subframe while someone turns the wheel, the bushes are likely tired.

Can the bushes be replaced without removing the entire rack?
In many cases, yes — the rack can be supported and the mounts serviced in situ. However, access varies by engine and accessories, and some OEM setups bundle the insulators, if so, a complete rack or an approved aftermarket bush kit may be the practical fix. Always follow correct EPAS and alignment procedures.