Idler Arm Bushes with Fitting Position Front Axle, Rear Axle

An idler arm is a pivoting support used in the parallelogram steering linkage fitted to some cars, utes, 4WDs and vans. It's found on vehicles with a steering box rather than rack-and-pinion steering.

In a parallelogram steering linkage, a centre link runs across the vehicle. One end of the centre link connects to the pitman arm on the steering box. The other end is supported by the idler arm, which bolts to the vehicle's frame or subframe. The idler arm holds that end of the centre link at the correct height and lets it pivot as the steering is turned.

Idler Arm vs Pitman Arm

The idler arm and the pitman arm sit at opposite ends of the centre link, but they do different jobs:

• The pitman arm connects to the steering box. It moves the centre link when you turn the steering wheel.
• The idler arm sits on the opposite side. It supports the centre link and pivots to follow its movement.

Because the idler arm has a pivot built into it, it's generally more prone to wear than the pitman arm. On some vehicles, both may need attention at the same time.

What Do Idler Arm Bushes Do?

On many vehicles, the idler arm pivots on bushes. These idler arm bushes sit at the pivot point and allow the arm to move as the steering is turned, while supporting the centre link.

When the bushes are in good condition, they help the idler arm support the steering linkage as it should. When they wear, the arm can develop extra movement at the pivot.

Why Idler Arm Bushes Wear

Idler arm bushes move every time you turn the steering wheel, so they wear gradually with age and use. Other factors can also affect how quickly they wear, including:

• Road conditions, such as rough roads and off-road driving
• Lack of lubrication, on idler arms fitted with grease fittings
• Damage, for example from an impact
• Age, particularly on older vehicles where the original bushes have been in service for many years

If your vehicle's idler arm has grease fittings, follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedule for lubrication.

Signs Your Idler Arm Bushes May Need Replacing

Worn idler arm bushes can contribute to:

• Steering that feels loose, or has extra play before the wheels respond
• Clunking or knocking noises from the front of the vehicle when turning or driving over bumps
• The vehicle wandering or pulling to one side
• Uneven tyre wear

These symptoms can also be caused by other steering or suspension components. Steering parts are critical to safety, so if you notice any change in how your steering feels, have your steering and suspension inspected by a qualified technician as soon as possible.

Choosing the Right Idler Arm Bush Kit

Idler arm bush kits are designed to suit particular vehicles, so choosing the right one starts with your make and model. Before you buy, check:

• Vehicle fitment: use the vehicle search to find idler arm bushes that suit your make, model and year.
• The part you need: confirm whether you need idler arm bushes, or whether the idler arm itself or another steering component needs replacing.
• What's included: check the product listing to see what comes in the kit.

Full fitment details, specifications and inclusions are listed on each product page. If you can't find idler arm bushes for your vehicle, or you're unsure which ones you need, Fulcrum's team can help.

Fitting Idler Arm Bushes

Idler arm bushes are part of your vehicle's steering system, so they need to be fitted correctly. If you're not confident working on steering components, have them fitted by a qualified technician. A wheel alignment is recommended after replacing idler arm components to make sure the steering and wheels are set up correctly.

With Fulcrum's Click & Fit service, you can buy your idler arm bushes online and have them delivered to your nearest Fulcrum workshop for installation. Fulcrum also offers a free suspension check and wheel alignments.

Buy Idler Arm Bushes Online from Fulcrum

You can shop idler arm bushes online and use the vehicle search to find the right idler arm bush kit for your make and model.

If you're unsure which parts suit your vehicle, Fulcrum's team can help you choose. Fulcrum also stocks a wider range of steering parts and polyurethane bushes, including drag link bushes, so you can replace other worn steering and suspension bushes at the same time.