Parts for your 2012 Subaru Exiga-Rack boots

2012 Subaru Exiga rack boots — what they do and when to replace them

Yes, rack boots are absolutely relevant and fitted to the 2012 Subaru Exiga (YA series). Subaru’s own technical literature confirms this: the Subaru Exiga/Legacy Workshop Manual (STIS) includes inspection and replacement procedures for the “Steering Gear Boot,” and the Subaru FAST electronic parts catalogue lists the steering rack bellows/boots for YA-model Exiga variants. These sources make it clear the Exiga uses a rack-and-pinion steering gear with bellows-type boots on both sides to protect the rack and inner tie rods.

On a 2012 Exiga, the rack boots (also called steering rack bellows) are there to keep grit, water and road grime off the polished rack bar and inner tie rod joints. They also help retain the correct grease on the inner joint and prevent contamination that can chew out joints or score the rack. On power-steered cars like the Exiga, a torn boot can let dirt in and trap leaked fluid, which is often the first clue that an internal rack seal is on the way out.

As part of regular servicing in Australia and New Zealand, it’s smart to inspect the boots every service or 10,000 km. Look for surface cracking, splits at the concertina folds, loose or missing clamps, or any oil residue inside or weeping out of the boot. If a boot is split, replace it promptly—both sides if they’re aged the same. A split rack boot can lead to WOF/RWC issues and accelerated wear of the rack and inner tie rods.

• Choose quality OEM-equivalent boots that match the Exiga’s rack diameter and stroke, generic one-size boots can kink or chafe.
• During fitment, avoid twisting the boot, seat it in the rack and tie rod grooves, and secure with proper clamps—not cable ties.
• If fluid is found inside a boot, the rack’s internal seal may be leaking. Replacing the boot won’t fix that—plan on rack repair or replacement.
• Any time the outer tie rod end is removed, book a wheel alignment. Toe will almost certainly change.

Basic replacement flow goes like this: mark toe position, remove the outer tie rod end, release the clamps, slide off the old boot, clean and inspect the rack surface, slide on the new boot without twisting, clamp it correctly, refit the tie rod end to the right torque, then get a proper alignment. Following Subaru workshop manual specs for torque and positioning keeps the Exiga’s steering light, quiet and precise for many more kilometres.

Popular questions about 2012 Subaru Exiga rack boots

How often should rack boots be replaced on a 2012 Subaru Exiga?
There’s no fixed interval, they’re a condition-based item. Inspect them at each service. In local conditions, many last 5–10 years, but replace immediately if you see splits, perishing, loose clamps, or oil trapped inside the boot. They’re also commonly replaced when fitting new inner tie rods.

Will a split rack boot fail a WOF/RWC?
Often, yes. A torn or unsecured rack boot can allow contamination of steering components, which is a safety concern. Expect a defect notice on a WOF/RWC until it’s replaced and the steering is rechecked for play and leaks.

Do you need a wheel alignment after changing rack boots?
Yes. Accessing the boot requires removing the outer tie rod end, and even careful refitting can shift toe settings. A professional alignment ensures the Exiga tracks straight and preserves tyre life.