Parts for your 2009 Toyota Wish-Rack boots

2009 Toyota Wish rack boots: what they do and when to replace them

Yes—this model uses steering rack boots. Technical references that confirm fitment include Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue for the ZGE2# (2009–2017) Wish, which lists the Steering Gear Boot (e.g., 45535‑12200/45535‑12210), and the Toyota Repair Manual for the ZGE2# series, Steering section, which specifies inspection of rack boots. Local compliance guides also matter: NZTA WOF and Australian roadworthy criteria treat split or insecure steering rack gaiters/boots as a fail, so they’re absolutely relevant on a 2009 Toyota Wish.

On the 2009 Wish—most commonly fitted with electric power steering—the rack boots (also called gaiters) are the bellows that cover each end of the steering rack and inner tie rods. Their job is simple but crucial: keep dust, water and road grit out, hold the right amount of grease in, and protect the rack seals and the inner tie rod joints. If a boot perishes or splits, contaminants can chew out the inner tie rod and rack, turning a cheap boot job into an expensive steering rack replacement.

For routine servicing, a quick look under the bonnet and from beneath goes a long way. They should be checking for cracks, oil or grease splatter, and loose or missing clamps at least every service or 10,000–15,000 kilometres. On EPS racks there’s no hydraulic fluid inside the boot, so if it’s wet with oil, that points to grease migration or a rack seal issue that needs attention.

Replacement is straightforward for a pro and not too dear. Expect roughly an hour a side, sometimes less, and a wheel alignment is recommended if the tie rod end is removed or the toe setting disturbed. Proper stainless bands or OEM clamps beat cable ties every day of the week—they hold tension as the boot flexes and heat cycles. Use only the light smear of grease specified in the repair manual, overpacking can burp the boot or attract grit.

• Common warning signs: perished rubber, visible splits, grease/oil mist on the inner guard, clunking from inner tie rod wear, or a failed WOF/RWC.
• Good practice: replace damaged boots promptly, inspect inner tie rods for play while you’re there, and ensure boots seat in their rack and tie-rod grooves before clamping.

Look after the rack boots and the Wish’s steering stays tight, quiet and compliant—exactly how it left the factory.

FAQs

What are the signs a rack boot needs replacing on a 2009 Toyota Wish?
Cracking, splits, or grease/oil spray around the inner tie rod area are the big giveaways. You might also hear a light clunk as the inner tie rod wears prematurely. In NZ and Australia, a torn or unsecured boot will generally fail a WOF/RWC, so it’s worth catching early.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing a rack boot?
If the tie rod end is removed or the toe setting is disturbed, yes—book an alignment. Even when marked carefully, it’s easy to end up a few millimetres out, and that’s enough to scrub tyres and upset steering feel.

Is the 2009 Wish hydraulic or electric steering, and does that change the boot?
Most 2009 Wishes run electric power steering. The boot’s role doesn’t change: it still shields the rack and inner tie rod. There shouldn’t be power steering fluid in an EPS boot—if you find oil inside, the rack or inner joint may be leaking and needs further checks.