Bushings that mount the steering rack to the body or subframe.
These bushes hold the rack in place and limit side movement. Wear can cause vague steering, knocks over bumps or a shift in steering feel when loading the wheels. Match bush shape and hardness to the rack and mount bracket. Tighten bolts to specification. Correct rack bushes help keep steering sharp and predictable.
Worn rack bushes can allow the rack to move sideways.
Yes. Play in the mounts can produce a knock as load comes on.
It is recommended to check alignment after steering or suspension work.