Parts for your 2009 Toyota Blade-Rack boots

2009 Toyota Blade rack-boots — purpose, care, and when to replace

According to Toyota’s own technical sources — the E150-series repair manual for Auris/Blade steering, and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (PNC 45535 “Boot, Steering Rack”) covering Blade variants such as AZE154H — the 2009 Toyota Blade is fitted with steering rack-boots (also called bellows or gaiters). Whether the car runs electric power steering (common on Blade) or a hydraulic rack, the rack-and-pinion ends are protected by a rubber boot on each side.

On a 2009 Blade, the rack-boots keep dust, water, and grit out of the rack bar and the inner tie-rod joints, while helping retain grease around the joint. They also allow the rack to “breathe” as it moves lock-to-lock, which prevents pressure from forcing contaminants past the seals. When a boot splits or perishes, road grime quickly attacks the inner joint and rack seals, accelerating wear and inviting costly steering play or rack damage.

Good servicing practice on a Blade is to inspect both rack-boots at every service. In Australian and New Zealand conditions, heat, ozone, and gravel roads can crack older rubber, so it’s smart to look closely for fine splits, oil or grease weep, or a boot that feels hard and brittle. If one side has failed, replacing boots in pairs is often sensible. Use quality one-piece boots with proper clamps — not cable ties — and set the boot so it isn’t twisted at full lock. If your rack uses a balance tube between boots, make sure it’s reconnected so the system breathes evenly.

Replacement typically involves removing the outer tie-rod end to slide the old boot off, so marking the tie-rod threads and getting a wheel alignment afterwards is recommended. If the inner tie-rod joint has play or knocks, address that while you’re in there, a fresh boot won’t save a worn joint. For torque specs on the tie-rod end and lock nuts, follow the Toyota workshop manual. On EPS-equipped Blades, a split boot won’t cause a fluid leak (there’s no hydraulic fluid), but it will still let contaminants in — so don’t delay the fix. OE or high-quality aftermarket rubber will usually outlast cheap alternatives, and a light smear of appropriate grease on the inner joint (not packed in the boot) helps longevity.

• Check at each service (10,000–15,000 km).
• Replace if cracked, split, loose, or oil/grease-stained.
• Re-clamp correctly and book a wheel alignment after work.

Popular questions about 2009 Toyota Blade rack-boots

Do all 2009 Toyota Blades have rack-boots even with electric power steering?

Yes. The Blade’s rack-and-pinion uses a boot on each end regardless of electric (EPS) or hydraulic assist. EPS doesn’t remove the need for boots, they still shield the rack bar and inner tie-rod joints from grime and water.

How often should rack-boots be replaced on a Blade?

There’s no fixed interval — replace on condition. Inspect at every service and swap them if you see cracks, splits, hardened rubber, or contamination. In harsh Aussie and Kiwi climates, ageing boots can fail sooner, so a proactive check is worthwhile.

Can universal “split” boots be used on a Blade?

They can get you out of trouble, but a proper one-piece boot with the right clamping is the better long-term fix. It seals more reliably, fits the rack shoulders correctly, and maintains the breather path between both sides where applicable.