Parts for your 2023 Ford Escape-Steering bushes

2023 Ford Escape steering bushes — are they fitted?

Short answer: no, the 2023 Ford Escape (C2 platform, including Kuga in NZ) doesn’t use separate, serviceable steering bushes. Technical sources such as the Ford Workshop Manual (WSM, section 211-02: Steering System — Electric Power-Assisted Steering) specify the steering gear as a complete EPAS rack-and-pinion assembly that bolts directly to the front subframe. The workshop steps and torque data show no removable rack-mount bushes, and the repair path is to replace the steering gear as a unit if needed. Likewise, the Ford Electronic Parts Catalogue for 2023 Escape lists the steering gear assembly, inner/outer tie rods and boots, but no standalone “steering bush” components.

Why it’s set up this way comes down to steering precision, packaging and NVH control. Modern EPAS racks are engineered with integral isolation and very tight build tolerances, so Ford ditches old-school, replaceable rack bushes. Any vibration control is handled via the subframe mounts and internal isolators inside the gear’s mounting design, rather than separate rubber bushes a tech would swap out. That means there’s no scheduled servicing or replacement item called “steering bushes” on a 2023 Escape.

If there’s play, vibration or a clunk felt through the wheel, the usual suspects on this model are elsewhere:

• Tie rod ends (inner or outer) and their boots
• Front lower control arm bushes and ball joints
• Stabiliser bar links and bushes
• Intermediate steering shaft joints
• Wheel alignment, tyre wear or tyre pressures

Owners chasing sharper steering feel or chasing down a knock are better off booking a proper inspection rather than hunting for a non-existent bush kit. A technician will load-test the tie rods, check control arm bush compliance, and verify EPAS calibration or updates if applicable. Where the rack itself is at fault, the WSM-guided remedy is rack replacement, not bushing replacement. That approach keeps the steering consistent across high kilometres and tough Aussie and Kiwi road conditions.

Popular questions about 2023 Ford Escape steering bushes

Does the 2023 Ford Escape have steering rack bushes that can be replaced?

No. The EPAS steering gear mounts directly to the subframe and is serviced as a complete assembly. Ford’s Workshop Manual and Parts Catalogue don’t list separate, serviceable rack-mount bushes for this model year. If there’s free play or noise, diagnosis focuses on tie rods, control arm bushes, sway bar hardware or the rack assembly itself.

What should be checked if there’s a clunk or loose feel in the steering?

Have a technician check inner and outer tie rods, front lower control arm bushes, stabiliser links and bushes, and the intermediate steering shaft. A wheel alignment and tyre condition check are also smart moves. If those pass, the EPAS rack may require further testing or replacement as a unit.

Is there any maintenance to keep the Escape’s steering feeling tight?

There’s no bush replacement to schedule, but regular servicing helps: inspect tie rods and boots, verify torque on critical fasteners after suspension work, keep tyres correctly inflated and rotated, and get periodic wheel alignments—especially after pothole hits or off-bitumen trips. Address any steering noises early to prevent accelerated wear.