Parts for your 2012 Toyota Fortuner-Rack boots

2012 Toyota Fortuner rack boots — what they do and how to look after them

Based on technical references, rack boots are absolutely fitted and relevant to the 2012 Toyota Fortuner. Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) for the AN60-series Fortuner lists a “Boot, Steering Rack” for this model (commonly referenced under Toyota part numbers such as 45535-0K010/0K020), and the Toyota repair manual for 2011–2015 Fortuner/Hilux shows a hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering assembly with bellows-style boots on each end. AU/NZ aftermarket catalogues also list replacement rack boots for the 2005–2015 Fortuner range, confirming their use on the 2012 model.

On a 2012 Fortuner, the rack boots (also called steering rack gaiters) are the flexible rubber bellows on either end of the rack-and-pinion. Their job is simple but crucial: keep dust, water, mud and grit away from the inner tie rods and rack seals, while allowing full steering movement. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions—think gravel roads, beach runs, farm tracks and river crossings—those boots are the first line of defence against premature wear of the rack, inner tie rods and seals.

For servicing, it’s smart to eyeball the rack boots at every service or WOF/reg inspection, and after any heavy off-road or water work. Look for cracks, splits, oil weep, or clamps that have loosened. A torn boot lets grime in and can push grease out, which can accelerate wear and eventually cause power steering leaks. If one boot is damaged, replacing them as a pair is good practice.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent tech: mark the tie-rod end position, remove the outer tie-rod end, slide off the old boot and clamps, clean the area, then fit an OE-quality boot with proper clamps (not cable ties), ensuring the boot isn’t twisted and the breather path isn’t pinched. Refit the tie-rod end, tighten the lock nut, and book a wheel alignment. Using quality boots that resist ozone and UV is worth it, especially if the Fortuner lives outside or goes bush regularly.

Owners can help the cause by rinsing the underbody after beach work, avoiding pressure-washing directly at the boots, and checking under the front end for any fresh grease fling on the chassis or sump guard—a classic sign of a split boot. Kept in good nick, the boots help the Fortuner steer sweetly for many more kilometres.

• Check interval: every service or 10,000–15,000 km, and after off‑road/water crossings.
• Replace in pairs, use proper clamps, and align the vehicle afterwards.
• Watch for cracks, grease sling, or fluid weep around the boot ends.

What are the signs the 2012 Fortuner’s rack boots need replacing?

Common giveaways include visible splits or cracking in the bellows, grease flung onto the crossmember or sump guard, dampness or power steering fluid weep near the inner tie rod area, and a gritty feel or knock when turning the wheel over bumps. After off-road or beach runs, sand caught in the folds is another red flag.

Left too long, contamination can chew out the inner tie rod and rack seals, turning a cheap boot job into a pricier steering repair.

How often should they be inspected on a Fortuner in Australia or New Zealand?

They’re worth a quick look at each service (about every 10,000–15,000 km), at WOF/rego checks, and any time the vehicle has been in deep water, thick mud, or heavy dust. Frequent off-roaders should add a visual once-over after trips, especially if there’s been full lock manoeuvres in ruts that can stress the boots.

Regular inspection catches minor cracks before they open up and let contaminants in.

Is it safe to drive with a torn rack boot?

It’ll drive, but it’s not a great idea. A torn boot exposes the inner tie rod and rack seal to grit and water, which can quickly cause wear, corrosion, and leaks. If a tear is spotted, minimise use—especially off-road or in wet conditions—and book replacement ASAP.

Replacing early is far cheaper than dealing with a leaky rack or sloppy steering down the track.