Parts for your 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer-Rack boots

2012 Mitsubishi Lancer rack boots — what they do and when to replace them

Yes, the 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer uses rack boots. Technical references including the Mitsubishi Lancer CJ/CF Factory Service Manual (Group 37: Steering), Mitsubishi ASA Electronic Parts Catalogue, and common workshop databases confirm a rack-and-pinion steering gear with bellows-style rack boots fitted to both sides of the rack. Whether the car is hydraulic power steering or electric assist, the inner tie rods and rack ends are protected by boots.

On a 2012 Lancer, rack boots (also called steering rack bellows) keep grit, water, and road splash out of the rack-and-pinion, while holding the right amount of air volume as the rack moves. They also help keep grease on the inner tie rod joints and can trap any weeping fluid so techs spot a problem before it becomes a drama.

For day-to-day servicing, it’s smart to inspect the boots every service or 10,000–15,000 km. A quick look with the wheels turned full lock both ways will usually show any cracking, perishing, or loose clamps. If the boot is torn, don’t put it off — dirt will chew out the inner tie rod and the rack itself, and it can lead to a WOF or roadworthy fail.

• Common signs it’s time to replace: visible splits, grease flung onto the control arm or subframe, water or grit inside the boot, or power steering fluid puddled in the boot (points to a rack seal issue).
• Best practice on a Lancer: replace boots in pairs, use proper stainless clamps (not cable ties), and check inner tie rod play while you’re there.

Replacement is straightforward with the right tools. The tie rod end comes off the knuckle, the old boot and clamps are removed, and the new bellows boot is slid on with a touch of silicone-safe lube on the small lip. Keep the rack centred and make sure the boot isn’t twisted before clamping. If an inner tie rod is disturbed or replaced, a wheel alignment is necessary to sort toe and protect tyre wear. Torque specs vary by variant, so refer to the Mitsubishi FSM for the correct figures.

Quality matters: OE-style thermoplastic boots last longer in Aussie and Kiwi conditions — heat, UV, and the odd gravel road. If a boot is oily, also check for leaking rack seals rather than just throwing a new boot on. Sorting the cause saves doing the job twice.

Popular questions about 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer rack boots

Do all 2012 Lancers have rack boots?
They do. Both hydraulic and electric-assisted setups on the 2012 Lancer use a rack-and-pinion with bellows boots on each side. The boots shield the rack ends and inner tie rods from contamination and help the steering last the distance.

How often should the rack boots be checked or replaced?
Have them checked at every service or at least every 10,000–15,000 km. Replace as soon as cracks, splits, or loose clamps are found. Many last well past 100,000 km, but harsh heat, gravel, and age can shorten their life.

Is it safe to drive with a torn rack boot?
Short trips might seem fine, but it risks fast wear of the inner tie rod and rack, and moisture can trigger corrosion. It’s common to fail a WOF/roadworthy for a torn boot. Get it fixed promptly and have the alignment checked afterwards.