Parts for your 2009 Lexus Is-Rack boots

2009 Lexus IS Rack Boots: What They Do and When to Replace Them

Per the Lexus IS 2006–2013 Repair Manual (Toyota TIS, Steering – Rack and Pinion Power Steering) and the Toyota/Lexus Electronic Parts Catalogue, the 2009 Lexus IS (IS250/IS350, XE20) is fitted with a rack-and-pinion steering gear that uses bellows-style rack boots on both sides. So yes—rack boots are relevant and used on this model.

On a 2009 Lexus IS, rack boots (also called steering rack bellows) act like flexible dust covers that seal the inner tie rod and the ends of the steering rack from grit, water and road splash. They keep the grease where it should be and stop contaminants wearing the rack and inner tie rod joints. If a power steering seal fails, the boot often catches the leaking fluid—so a swollen, oily boot is a handy early warning.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to eyeball the boots every service or roughly every 10,000–15,000 km. Look for splits, perishing, loose clamps, or fluid weeping. Any damage means replacement—torn boots let in dirt fast, and that can snowball into inner tie rod play or rack wear, plus it’s a likely fail at WoF/RWC.

Replacement is straightforward for a pro and very doable for a keen DIYer with the right kit. Typical steps are:

• Safely raise and support the front, remove the wheel, mark the outer tie rod position, and separate it from the knuckle.
• Remove the old boot and clamps, slide on a fresh boot, and secure with proper clamps (not cable ties).
• Reinstall the tie rod to the marked position, torque fasteners to spec from the Lexus repair manual, and check toe. A wheel alignment is recommended, especially if the inner/outer tie rod position changed.

Handy signs it’s time to act:

• Cracks or splits in the bellows, or grease/dirt streaking on the boot.
• Boot full of power steering fluid (points to an internal rack seal issue).
• Steering wander or uneven tyre wear after recent suspension work.

Quality matters—use OEM or reputable aftermarket boots and the correct clamps to keep the seal tight. A quick check under the bonnet and a peek behind each front wheel at service time will keep the Lexus steering sharp, compliant, and roadworthy across Aussie and Kiwi conditions.

Popular questions

Does the 2009 Lexus IS actually have rack boots?
Yes. The XE20-series IS runs a rack-and-pinion steering gear with a bellows boot on each side to protect the inner tie rods and rack ends. They’re a normal wear item and part of standard steering inspections.

How long do rack boots last, and what does replacement cost?
In typical Aussie/NZ driving, boots can last anywhere from 80,000 to well over 200,000 km, depending on climate and road grime. Parts are commonly $40–$150 per side, with 0.7–1.5 hours labour each side. Add an alignment if tie rod adjustment changed. Prices vary by workshop and brand.

Is it OK to drive with a torn rack boot?
Short trips to the workshop are usually fine, but prolonged driving risks dirt ingestion and accelerated rack/inner tie rod wear. It can also cause a WoF/RWC fail. Best to sort it promptly.