Parts for your 2008 Toyota Ractis-Rack boots

2008 Toyota Ractis Rack Boots

Yes, the 2008 Toyota Ractis uses rack boots. Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) for the Ractis NCP100/NCP105 lists “Boot, Steering Rack” with typical part references such as 45535‑0D010/0D020, and the Toyota Repair Manual for Ractis (2005–2010, Steering – Rack and Pinion section) outlines inspection and replacement of the rack boots and clamps. That means this model does run a rack‑and‑pinion steering setup with protective bellows over the inner tie rods.

On the Ractis, the rack boots (sometimes called steering rack gaiters) are the ribbed rubber bellows that seal each end of the steering rack. Their job is simple but vital: keep grit, water, and road grime out of the inner tie‑rod joints and the rack bar, while allowing smooth steering movement. Even though most Ractis variants use column‑assist electric power steering (EPS), the mechanical rack still needs these boots for protection.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to give the rack boots a quick look. If they’re cracked, perished, loose on the clamps, or wet with road muck inside, they should be replaced. In NZ and Australia, split rack boots will typically fail a WOF/roadworthy inspection because exposed joints wear rapidly. Toyota’s service literature recommends inspecting the steering gear and linkages at routine service intervals, that’s a perfect time to check the boots.

• Tell‑tale signs it’s time: visible splits, missing or loose clamps, excessive play at the inner tie rod, or dirt/contamination inside the bellows.
• Good practice when replacing: use OE‑style boots and new clamps, don’t twist the bellows during fitting, lightly lubricate the inner lip with silicone grease, and always book a wheel alignment afterwards.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent tech: mark toe, pop the outer tie‑rod end free, slide off the old boot and clamps, clean the rack end, then fit the new boot and secure with the specified clamps. Because EPS variants don’t carry hydraulic fluid in the rack, you shouldn’t see power steering oil inside the boot, if you do find oil, it’s likely contamination from elsewhere that needs investigation.

Look after the rack boots on a 2008 Ractis and the steering gear will usually stay tight, quiet, and compliant for years, saving the inner joints and rack from pricey wear.

• Do all 2008 Toyota Ractis models have rack boots?
  Yes. Regardless of trim or whether it’s column‑assist EPS, the 2008 Ractis uses a rack‑and‑pinion with protective bellows on each side. Toyota’s EPC for NCP100/NCP105 identifies the steering rack boots and dedicated clamps as service parts.
• How often should the rack boots be replaced?
  There’s no fixed time or kilometre interval, they’re replaced on condition. Inspect them at each service. If the rubber is cracked, the bellows are torn, or clamps are loose, replace them and get a wheel alignment.
• Is it safe to drive with a torn rack boot?
  It’s not recommended. A split boot lets in water and grit, accelerating wear of the inner tie rod and rack bar. It’s also a common WOF/roadworthy fail in NZ and Australia, so it’s best sorted promptly.