Parts for your 1999 Subaru Forester-Rack boots

1999 Subaru Forester rack-boots: purpose, checks, and when to replace

Yes — the 1999 Subaru Forester runs a rack-and-pinion steering setup that uses rubber bellows, commonly called rack-boots. This is confirmed in Subaru’s Factory Service Manual for the 1999 Forester (Steering section) and the Subaru electronic parts catalogue, both of which identify the steering gear bellows/boots fitted on each side of the rack. Aftermarket parts catalogues also list rack and pinion bellows specifically for this model, so the part is absolutely relevant to the vehicle.

On a 1999 Forester, rack-boots do two vital jobs: they keep water, grit, and road grime off the inner tie rods and rack ends, and they help retain the light grease that lubricates those components. Because the boots flex every time the steering is turned, they’re made from tough rubber or thermoplastic. If they split or harden with age, contaminants can get in and chew out the inner tie rods or even the rack itself, turning a cheap fix into an expensive steering overhaul.

Smart servicing means giving the rack-boots a quick look every service or 10,000 kilometres. Signs they’re due include visible cracks, perishing, loose or missing clamps, or wetness. If you see power steering fluid weeping from the boot ends, that’s a red flag for an internal rack seal leak — new boots won’t fix that, the rack likely needs resealing or replacement.

When replacing boots on a Forester:

• Do both sides if one has failed — the other won’t be far behind.
• Remove the outer tie rod end, count the turns off, and refit the same turns to keep toe close. A proper wheel alignment is still recommended afterwards.
• Use quality clamps, not cable ties, and don’t overtighten to the point of cutting the boot.
• Lightly grease the inner lip to help the boot slide on, but keep grease away from the rack shaft where the seal runs.
• If the boot has a breather or equalisation feature, make sure it isn’t blocked.

Daily driving in Aussie and Kiwi conditions — heat, UV, and road grit — ages these boots. Keeping them intact protects the steering, maintains a tidy road feel, and helps the Forester sail through a WoF or roadworthy check without steering advisories. It’s a small part that saves a big headache when looked after.

Popular questions about 1999 Subaru Forester rack-boots

How often should rack-boots be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval, they’re replaced on condition. Inspect at every service. In hotter or dusty conditions, expect 5–10 years of life, but age, UV, and oil exposure can shorten that. If there’s cracking, perishing, or loose clamps, replace promptly.

Can you drive with a torn rack-boot?
You can, but it’s not wise. A torn boot lets grit in, which quickly wears inner tie rods and can damage the rack. If power steering fluid is present inside the boot, the rack’s internal seal may be leaking — that’s a bigger job than just a boot.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing a rack-boot?
Yes, it’s recommended. Even if you count the tie rod turns, small variations can shift toe. An alignment restores proper tyre wear and steering feel.