Parts for your 2000 Toyota Caldina-Rack boots

2000 Toyota Caldina rack-boots: purpose, fitment and service advice

Technical sources confirm rack-boots are used on the 2000 Toyota Caldina. The Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) for Caldina ST21#/CT21# (1997–2002) lists a “Bellows (rack boot), steering rack” under Steering Gear & Linkage, and Toyota workshop literature for the ST210 series specifies inspection of the rack boots during routine servicing. Typical Toyota part references include Bellows Sub-Assy, Steering Rack (commonly p/n 45535-12050, used left and right on many models), with matching clamps—always verify by VIN.

On the 2000 Caldina, the rack-boots (also called bellows or gaiters) shield the inner tie rods and the rack bar from grit, water and road grime. They keep grease in and contamination out, which is critical for the longevity of the steering rack and for smooth, precise steering feel. If a boot splits, abrasive road muck can quickly chew out the inner tie-rod joint and the rack seals. Fluid pooling inside a boot is a red flag for a leaking power-steering rack—worth checking before it turns into a bigger bill.

Good servicing practice is to inspect the rack-boots at each service or around every 10,000–15,000 km. A quick look with a torch for cracks, perishing, loose clamps or weeping fluid is usually enough. In NZ and Australia, damaged boots can lead to a failed WoF/roadworthy, because they directly affect steering safety.

• Common signs of trouble: visible splits or perishing, grease flung onto the subframe, damp power-steering fluid inside the boot, or a light knock on steering over bumps.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent home spannerer, but alignment is important:

1. Mark the tie-rod end position, crack the locknut and remove the outer tie-rod end.
2. Cut old clamps, slide off the damaged boot, clean the area and check the inner tie-rod for play.
3. Lightly grease the new boot lips, slide it on, seat it in the rack groove and fit correct clamps (avoid cable ties on hydraulic systems).
4. Refit the tie-rod end to the marked position and torque to spec, then book a wheel alignment.

Quality OEM-style boots fit better and last longer, especially in Aussie heat or Kiwi wet. If there’s any sign of fluid inside the boot, plan for rack seal diagnosis before just popping a new boot on.

• Are the left and right rack-boots the same on a 2000 Caldina?
  Yes, on most ST210/CT216 Caldina models the rack-boots are identical side to side and sold individually. Always confirm by VIN against the Toyota EPC to match engine/driveline variations and clamp styles.
• Will replacing rack-boots require a wheel alignment?
  Recommended. Even when the tie-rod end is refitted to the original mark, toe can shift slightly. A proper alignment protects tyres and restores straight-line stability.
• How often should rack-boots be checked?
  At every regular service or at least every 10,000–15,000 km. Add an extra look after gravel-road trips or deep water crossings.