Parts for your 2013 Toyota Fortuner-Rack boots

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

Yes, the 2013 Toyota Fortuner uses rack boots. Technical references that confirm this include: Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue (APAC) for the Fortuner AN60 series, Steering Gear & Link section, which lists “Boot, Steering Rack” (PNC 45535, commonly 45535‑0K040/0K020 depending on VIN), the Toyota Repair Manual for the AN50/60 Fortuner/Hilux platform, which has procedures titled “Steering Gear – Rack Boot – Inspection/Replacement”, and Toyota’s scheduled maintenance items for Australia/New Zealand that specify “steering linkage and boots – inspect.” These sources make rack boots directly relevant to any 2013toyotafortuner rackboots service conversation.

On a 2013 Toyota Fortuner, the rack boots (sometimes called bellows) sit at each end of the steering rack, sealing the inner tie rods and rack bar from dust, water, sand, and mud. They keep grease where it should be and stop grit from chewing out the rack and inner tie rod joints. If a boot splits, abrasive contaminants can get in fast—especially with off‑road work—and a tidy, cheap boot job can turn into a costly rack rebuild.

For servicing, it’s smart to have the rack boots inspected at each service or after heavy off‑road use and water crossings. Signs they need attention include visible splits or perishing, grease flung onto the chassis or under‑tray, a boot that’s come off its clamp, or fluid pooling inside the boot (a red flag for internal rack seal leaks on hydraulic systems). If a boot is damaged, replace it promptly with quality EPDM or genuine Toyota boots and always fit new clamps. When fitting, avoid twisting the bellows, ensure the steering is centred, and set the boot length as per the manual so it doesn’t bind at full lock.

If the inner tie rod must be removed to slip a boot on, mark the thread position carefully. A wheel alignment check is recommended after any steering work, even if only for peace of mind. Owners in Australia and New Zealand who frequently tour gravel roads, beaches, and rutted tracks will benefit from shorter inspection intervals, because UV, heat, and grit are tough on rubber components.

Sorted boot maintenance keeps the steering feel tight, helps the Fortuner track straight, and protects the rack so it’ll go the distance.

• Common symptoms of failing rack boots:
  • Split or perished rubber bellows
  • Grease sling on nearby components
  • Clamps missing or loose
  • Fluid trapped inside the boot (possible rack seal leak)

FAQs

Do all 2013 Toyota Fortuners have rack boots?

Yes. The AN60-series Fortuner uses a rack‑and‑pinion steering gear with a protective boot on each end of the rack. Toyota’s EPC lists the part as “Boot, Steering Rack” (PNC 45535), which applies across the 2011–2015 Fortuner range. If it steers via a rack, it has rack boots.

How often should rack boots be replaced on a 2013 Fortuner?

There’s no fixed kilometre interval, they’re replaced on condition. Inspect at every service and after off‑road trips or water crossings. If a boot is cracked, loose, or contaminated with fluid, replace it immediately to protect the rack and inner tie rods.

Can a split rack boot cause a WOF/rego or roadworthy fail?

It can. In NZ and Australia, steering components must be in good condition. A torn or unsecured rack boot can trigger a fail because it allows contamination and may hide leaks. Replacing the boot and rechecking alignment typically sorts it.