Parts for your 2023 Ford Transit-Steering bushes

2023 Ford Transit steering bushes: what’s actually fitted

For the 2023 Ford Transit, “steering bushes” aren’t a relevant or serviceable part. This model runs an electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) rack-and-pinion system that bolts directly to the front subframe. There are no separate, replaceable steering rack mounting bushes, and the steering column uses bearings and universal joints rather than bush-type inserts.

Technical sources back that up. The Ford Workshop Manual for the 2023 Transit (Section 211-02 Steering System) specifies the steering gear is serviced as an assembly with its isolators integral to the unit. The column and intermediate shaft are likewise serviced as assemblies that rely on bearings and couplings, not bushes. Major aftermarket service information (e.g., Mitchell1/ProDemand and ALLDATA for the 2023 Transit) lists no separate steering rack bush procedure or part, inspections referring to “bushes” in this area point to suspension components such as the lower control arm and stabiliser bar, which aren’t steering parts. Ford parts catalogues for the 2023 Transit don’t show standalone steering rack bush part numbers either.

Why the change from older designs? Modern EPAS racks are engineered for precise on-centre feel and consistent assistance. A rigidly mounted rack helps accuracy and feedback, while noise and vibration are handled through the rack design, subframe tuning and column couplings rather than soft, replaceable bushes. Across the system, movement is controlled by ball joints and bearings, not rubber sleeves.

If a customer asks for “steering bushes” on a 2023 Transit, a workshop is really looking at other wear points. Typical steering-related service checks include:

• Inner and outer tie-rod ends for play, split boots and corrosion
• Steering rack bellows for tears and fluid traces (even EPAS racks can seep grease)
• Intermediate shaft and column universal joints for stiffness or notchiness
• EPAS fault codes, assistance calibration and any abnormal assist noise
• Wheel alignment and tyre wear patterns after any tie-rod work

Symptoms often blamed on “steering bushes” usually come from elsewhere up front: clunks on bumps can point to lower control arm rear bushes or stabiliser links, a tugging feel may be alignment or tyre-related, a knock on full lock might be strut top mounts or pad shift. Where the steering rack itself develops internal play or noise, the accepted repair is to replace the steering gear assembly and complete a wheel alignment afterwards. Routine inspections at normal servicing intervals (around 12 months/15,000 km, or per local schedule) keep the Transit’s steering sharp and predictable.

• Does the 2023 Ford Transit have replaceable steering rack bushes?
• What should be checked in the steering at each service on a 2023 Transit?
• What causes a clunk when turning on a 2023 Transit if it’s not steering bushes?

Does the 2023 Ford Transit have replaceable steering rack bushes?
No. The EPAS steering rack is mounted to the subframe without separate, serviceable rack bushes. If there’s wear or internal play, the steering gear is replaced as a complete assembly, then aligned.

What should be checked in the steering at each service on a 2023 Transit?
Workshops typically inspect inner/outer tie-rods, rack bellows, the intermediate shaft joints, and scan for EPAS faults. A quick road test for self-centring and assist feel, plus a wheel alignment check if tyres show uneven wear, rounds it out.

What causes a clunk when turning on a 2023 Transit if it’s not steering bushes?
Common culprits are front lower control arm rear bushes, stabiliser bar links/bushes, strut top mounts, or even brake pad movement. Steering column joints and the rack itself are less common but should be assessed if the noise persists.