Parts for your 2013 Toyota Fortuner-Rack boots

2013 Toyota Fortuner rack boots — what they do and when to replace them

Based on Toyota’s technical literature — the Fortuner AN60/N5# series Repair Manual (Steering section) and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue entries for “Boot, Steering Gear” on 2013 Fortuner variants — this model uses a hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering gear with a flexible rubber boot on each side of the rack. In other words, rack boots (also called steering rack bellows or gaiters) are definitely fitted and relevant on a 2013 Toyota Fortuner.

On this Fortuner, the rack boots seal the ends of the steering rack, keeping out water, dust, mud and sand while helping retain a light smear of grease at the inner tie rod joints. That protection matters in Aussie and Kiwi conditions — think corrugations, creek crossings and beach work — where grit can quickly chew through inner tie rods and rack seals if the boots are split.

Good rack boots mean lighter, more consistent steering feel and longer life for the inner tie rods and the rack’s internal seals. Once a boot cracks, it tends to fling grease onto the inside of the front tyre and allows contamination into the rack, which can lead to play, knocking, or power-steering fluid weeps.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to get the rack boots inspected every service or 10–15,000 km, and after any heavy off‑road trip. Look for:

• Cracks, splits or perishing in the rubber bellows
• Grease sling on the inner sidewalls of the front tyres
• Loose or missing boot clamps and signs of fluid misting near the boot

If a boot is damaged, replacing it promptly is cheap insurance. Quality genuine or OEM-spec boots seal better and last longer. A technician will remove the tie rod end, slide off the old boot, clean the area, lightly re-grease the inner joint (don’t over-pack), fit the new boot and secure proper one-time clamps — no cable ties, thanks. If the tie rod end is disturbed, a wheel alignment is recommended, most jobs will involve at least loosening it, so factoring in an alignment is wise.

Tips to make them last: avoid petroleum-based cleaners on the rubber, rinse off salt and mud after trips, and have both boots checked together — if one’s gone, the other isn’t far behind. This is a straightforward job that can prevent a costly steering rack replacement down the track.

Popular questions about 2013 Toyota Fortuner rack boots

Do 2013 Fortuners actually have rack boots?
Yes. Toyota’s Fortuner AN60 platform uses a hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering gear with a protective rubber boot on each side. The parts are listed in the Toyota EPC as “Boot, Steering Gear,” and the factory Repair Manual shows inspection and replacement procedures.

How often should the rack boots be checked or replaced?
Have them inspected every service or 10–15,000 km, and after off-road or beach driving. Replace any boot that’s cracked, split, loose, or contaminated with fluid or grit. They’re not a scheduled replacement item by time, but they’re consumables in harsh conditions.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing a rack boot?
If the tie rod end is removed or adjusted, yes — get an alignment. While some techs mark and refit the tie rod to preserve toe, an alignment is inexpensive assurance that tyres wear evenly and the Fortuner tracks straight.