Parts for your 2006 Toyota Hilux-Rack boots

2006 Toyota Hilux rack boots: fitted, functional, and worth keeping in top nick

Rack boots are absolutely relevant to a 2006 Toyota Hilux. Technical sources including the Toyota Hilux 2005–2011 Chassis Repair Manual and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue specify a rack-and-pinion steering assembly on this generation (AN/KUN/GGN series), which uses protective rack boots (also called steering rack gaiters or dust boots) over the inner tie rods. Genuine Toyota listings show applicable boot part numbers in the 45535-0K0xx family across 2WD and 4WD variants for these model years. Aftermarket catalogues for AU/NZ likewise supply rack boot kits for 2005–2015 Hilux, confirming fitment.

On a 2006 Hilux, the rack boots do a deceptively big job for such simple bits of rubber. They seal out dust, water, mud and gravel from the steering rack and inner tie rod joints, and they help keep grease where it belongs. When intact, they protect the rack seals and teeth from abrasion and moisture—key for a ute that often sees gravel roads, job sites and the odd creek crossing.

Tell-tales that a boot needs attention include cracking at the folds, splits from stick strikes off‑road, or wetness from power steering fluid collecting inside the boot. Grease flung around the inner guard, a light clunk over bumps, or heavier steering after wet use can all hint the boots or inner tie rods deserve a closer look. Torn boots are commonly flagged at WOF/RWC inspections in NZ and Australia.

Good practice for servicing a 2006 Hilux includes:

• Inspect rack boots at every service (10,000–15,000 km) and after heavy off‑road or water use.
• If a boot is torn, replace both sides as a pair. Use quality clamps (stainless), not cable ties.
• Check inner tie rod play while the boot is off, renew if there’s any looseness or notchiness.
• If fluid is found inside a boot, the rack’s internal seal may be leaking—plan a rack reseal or replacement.
• Avoid overpacking boots with grease, they need free movement and no pressure build‑up.
• Refit with the steering centred, seat the boot without twists, and secure the breather if provided.
• A wheel alignment is recommended after disturbing tie rod ends, even if thread counts are marked.

Owners who stick with genuine or high‑quality aftermarket boots and keep an eye on them as part of routine servicing generally avoid premature rack wear and keep steering feel crisp for the long haul.

Popular questions about 2006 Toyota Hilux rack boots

Do all 2006 Hilux models use rack boots, or do some have a steering box?
For Australia and New Zealand 2005–2011 Hilux models (2WD and 4WD AN/KUN/GGN series), the steering is rack‑and‑pinion with rubber rack boots on the inner tie rods. Market and build variations are always possible, so a VIN check in the Toyota EPC is the tidy way to confirm exact fitment on a specific ute.

How often should rack boots be replaced on a 2006 Hilux?
They’re not strictly time‑based items, they’re replaced on condition. Regular inspection at each service is sensible, with many lasting years in urban use. Utes that see corrugations, brush and water crossings should expect more frequent attention—swap boots at the first sign of cracking, splitting or oil contamination.

Is a wheel alignment needed after changing a rack boot?
Yes, it’s recommended. The job usually involves removing or loosening the outer tie rod end. Even when thread positions are carefully marked, small variations can nudge toe out of spec. A post‑repair alignment keeps tyre wear even and the steering tracking straight.