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Parts for your 2007 Toyota Ractis-Rack boots
2007 Toyota Ractis rack-boots: what they do and how to look after them
Based on the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) for Ractis NCP100/NCP105 and the Toyota service manual for this model range (2005–2010), the 2007 Toyota Ractis uses rack-and-pinion steering with protective bellows commonly called rack-boots. Industry catalogues for replacement steering gear components list left/right rack-boots for this vehicle as routine service parts, so the part is absolutely relevant to a 2007 Ractis.
Rack-boots are the flexible rubber bellows on each end of the steering rack. Their job is to keep grit, water, and road splash out of the rack and inner tie rods while allowing full steering travel. On the Ractis—whether it’s got column-assist electric power steering or hydraulic assist—the rack itself still relies on intact boots to protect its grease and seals. Once a boot splits, contaminants get in and can chew out the inner tie rod and rack guide, leading to play, noise, heavier steering, or leaks. In NZ, a torn steering rack boot will commonly cause a WOF fail, in Australia, it’s a typical defect noted at rego or roadworthy checks.
Good practice is to inspect the rack-boots at every service or at least every 10,000–15,000 kilometres, especially if the Ractis sees rough roads, winter salt, or beach air. Look for:
- Cracks, splits, or oil/grease weeping from the bellows
- Loose or missing clamps
- Perished rubber or rubbing marks from full-lock contact
If replacement is needed, it’s a straightforward job for a workshop and a doable DIY for the confident home mechanic:
- Safely raise and support the front, remove the wheel, and crack the outer tie-rod locknut.
- Count turns or mark the tie-rod end position to preserve toe-in enough to drive for alignment.
- Remove the old boot and clamps, wipe away contamination, and check the inner tie rod for play.
- Fit the new boot (left/right are typically interchangeable), use new clamps, and ensure the breather port isn’t kinked.
- Refit the tie-rod end and book a proper wheel alignment.
Tips the Ractis crowd swear by: don’t over-pack the boot with grease (the rack is already lubricated), use proper ear or screw clamps rather than cable ties, and avoid solvent-based cleaners that can harden the rubber. Keeping the rack-boots healthy is cheap insurance against an expensive steering rack replacement down the track.
Popular questions
Do both sides of a 2007 Ractis use the same rack-boot?
Yes. On this generation Ractis, the left and right boots are functionally the same style of bellows. Genuine Toyota listings and aftermarket catalogues show a pair of boots supplied for both sides along with new clamps. Always confirm by VIN when ordering to match production month.
Will I need a wheel alignment after replacing rack-boots?
It’s highly recommended. Even if the tie-rod end position is carefully marked and counted, minor differences can nudge toe-out or toe-in. A post-job alignment keeps the steering centred, protects tyres from uneven wear, and ensures the Ractis tracks straight.
What damages rack-boots on a Ractis?
Age-related rubber hardening, UV exposure, grit, and full-lock rubbing are the usual culprits. Coastal air and gravel roads can accelerate cracking. Once a split starts, water and dirt get in quickly, so it’s best to replace at the first sign of damage rather than waiting for steering play to develop.
