The APDTY 160336 Electric Power Steering Coupler Bushing is a replacement rubber damper for the motor shaft in electronic power steering (EPS) systems found on select 2012-2022 Toyota, Lexus, and Scion vehicles. This flexible steering coupler absorbs vibration and couples the EPS motor to the steering column, replacing OE part numbers 45254-28040, 45250-28641, and 45253-28130. When this bushing wears or fails, drivers may experience clunking noises, loose steering feel, or intermittent power assist.
Key Takeaways
- APDTY 160336 replaces the rubber damper bushing inside the electric power steering motor assembly
- Fits select 2012-2022 Toyota, Lexus, and Scion models equipped with electronic power steering only
- Eliminates clunking, popping, or rattling noises from the steering column when worn
- Direct replacement for OE 45254-28040, 45250-28641, and 45253-28130
- Brand new flexible steering coupler kit designed for DIY or professional installation
Buy APDTY 160336 directly from APDTY
What Is the Electric Power Steering Coupler Bushing?
The electric power steering coupler bushing is a small rubber damper component located inside the EPS motor assembly. Its primary functions include:
- Vibration isolation: Absorbs road feedback and motor vibration to prevent harsh inputs from reaching the steering wheel.
- Flexible coupling: Connects the EPS motor shaft to the steering column intermediate shaft, allowing slight angular and axial movement.
- Torque transfer: Transmits the motor's assist torque smoothly to the steering system without rigid metal-to-metal contact.
Over time, heat, age, and repeated steering cycles cause the rubber to crack, harden, or deform. When the bushing deteriorates, the precision fit between motor and column is lost, resulting in noise and reduced steering feel.
What Are the Symptoms of a Failing EPS Coupler Bushing?
A worn or damaged electric power steering coupler bushing typically produces the following symptoms:
- Clunking or popping noise from the steering column area, especially when turning the wheel at low speeds or from a stop.
- Rattling or knocking over bumps or rough pavement, audible near the dashboard or footwell.
- Loose or vague steering feel, as if there is play in the steering system even though tie rods and ball joints are tight.
- Intermittent power assist: In severe cases, a disintegrated bushing may cause momentary loss of electric assist or trigger the EPS warning light.
Because these symptoms overlap with worn intermediate shaft bearings, column u-joints, and rack mounts, careful diagnosis—often by inspecting the EPS motor assembly directly—is necessary to confirm bushing failure.
Which Vehicles Does APDTY 160336 Fit?
APDTY 160336 is engineered for vehicles equipped with electronic power steering only. Based on verified fitment data, this part is compatible with the following year/make/model combinations:
| Year Range | Make | Model |
|---|---|---|
| 2013–2018 | Lexus | ES300h |
| 2013–2018 | Lexus | ES350 |
| 2015–2017 | Lexus | NX200t |
| 2018–2021 | Lexus | NX300 |
| 2015–2021 | Lexus | NX300h |
| 2016–2021 | Lexus | RX350 |
| 2018–2021 | Lexus | RX350L |
| 2016–2021 | Lexus | RX450h |
| 2018–2021 | Lexus | RX450hL |
| 2019–2021 | Lexus | UX200 |
| 2019–2021 | Lexus | UX250h |
| 2016 | Scion | iM |
| 2013–2018 | Toyota | Avalon |
| 2012–2017 | Toyota | Camry |
| 2018–2022 | Toyota | C-HR |
| 2019–2022 | Toyota | Corolla |
| 2022 | Toyota | Corolla Cross |
| 2017–2018 | Toyota | Corolla iM |
| 2016–2022 | Toyota | Prius |
| 2017–2022 | Toyota | Prius Prime |
Important: This list reflects the specific vehicles for which APDTY has verified fitment. If your year, make, or model is not listed above, do not assume compatibility. Always check the live compatibility chart on the product page or contact APDTY support to confirm fitment for your VIN.
Specifications and OE Cross-Reference
| APDTY Part Number | 160336 |
| Part Type | Rubber Damper Bushing / Flexible Steering Coupler |
| Application | Electric Power Steering Motor Shaft |
| Condition | Brand New |
| OE Replacement Numbers | 45254-28040, 45250-28641, 45253-28130 |
| Quantity | Single unit (as required per vehicle) |
This bushing is manufactured to meet or exceed OE specifications for material durometer, dimensional tolerances, and temperature resistance. It is sold as a standalone replacement component for technicians who are rebuilding or servicing the EPS motor assembly.
Installation Overview and Safety Considerations
Replacing the electric power steering coupler bushing typically involves partial disassembly of the EPS motor unit and steering column. While the exact procedure varies by model, the general steps include:
- Disconnect the battery: Always disconnect the negative terminal and wait at least 90 seconds to allow airbag system capacitors to discharge. This vehicle may be equipped with a supplemental restraint system (SRS), and working near the steering column poses airbag deployment risk if power is not isolated.
- Remove lower dash panels and column covers to access the EPS motor and intermediate shaft.
- Disconnect the EPS motor electrical connector and unbolt the motor from its bracket.
- Separate the motor shaft from the column shaft, noting the position of alignment marks or splines.
- Extract the old bushing from the motor shaft or column coupler, clean the mating surfaces, and install the new APDTY 160336 bushing per OE assembly sequence.
- Reassemble in reverse order, torque all fasteners to specification, reconnect the battery, and perform a steering self-test or clear any stored EPS fault codes.
Airbag Safety Warning: The steering column on these vehicles is part of the airbag deployment path. Improper handling, failure to disconnect the battery, or incorrect reassembly can cause inadvertent airbag deployment, resulting in serious injury. If you are not trained in SRS service procedures, have this repair performed by a qualified technician. Always follow the vehicle manufacturer's service manual for airbag system precautions.
After installation, test-drive the vehicle at low speeds in a safe area to verify that steering noise is eliminated and that power assist functions normally. If the EPS warning light remains on, use a scan tool to retrieve and clear any diagnostic trouble codes.
Frequently asked questions
Will APDTY 160336 fix a clunking noise in my steering column?
If the clunking or popping noise is caused by a worn rubber damper inside the EPS motor assembly, yes—replacing the bushing with APDTY 160336 will eliminate the noise. However, similar sounds can also come from worn intermediate shaft bearings or loose column mounts, so confirm the diagnosis before ordering.
Do I need to reprogram or calibrate the EPS system after replacing this bushing?
In most cases, no programming is required for a bushing replacement. However, you may need to clear stored fault codes with a scan tool. If the vehicle has adaptive or lane-keeping steering, consult the factory service manual to determine whether a steering-angle-sensor calibration is recommended.
Can I install this part myself, or do I need special tools?
A mechanically skilled DIYer with basic hand tools can perform this repair, but you must follow strict airbag safety protocols (battery disconnect, 90-second wait) and have access to a service manual for torque specs and assembly sequence. If you are uncomfortable working near the airbag system, have a professional perform the installation.
How do I know if my vehicle has electronic power steering?
If your vehicle is listed in the fitment table above, it is equipped with electronic power steering. You can also verify by looking under the hood: EPS systems have no power steering pump, hoses, or fluid reservoir—the assist motor is integrated into the steering column or rack assembly.
The APDTY 160336 Electric Power Steering Coupler Bushing is the direct-fit solution for eliminating clunking, rattling, and loose steering feel caused by a worn EPS motor shaft damper on 2012–2022 Toyota, Lexus, and Scion models with electronic power steering. By replacing OE part numbers 45254-28040, 45250-28641, and 45253-28130, this brand-new rubber coupler restores smooth, quiet operation and precise steering response. Whether you're a professional technician or a confident DIYer, APDTY 160336 delivers OE-quality performance at a competitive value. Verify your vehicle's compatibility using the fitment chart above, follow all airbag safety precautions during installation, and enjoy restored steering confidence. Order APDTY 160336 today and put an end to steering column noise for good.