Parts for your 2013 Toyota Vitz|yaris-Rack boots

2013 Toyota Vitz/Yaris Rack Boots

Yes, the 2013 Toyota Vitz/Yaris (XP130 series: KSP130, NCP130/131, NSP130) uses rack boots. Toyota’s Repair Manual for the XP130 steering system (rack-and-pinion with electric power steering) details removal/installation of the rack boot, and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue lists “Boot, Steering Rack” for these models (common part references include 45535-52030, market-dependent). That means rack boots are absolutely relevant to this vehicle.

On this Vitz/Yaris, the rack boots (also called bellows) sit over the inner tie rods at each end of the steering rack. Their job is to keep dust, water and road grit out of the rack housing and to hold the correct grease around the inner joints. Even though this model runs electric power steering (so no hydraulic fluid inside the rack ends), a split boot can let in moisture and muck, which can chew out the inner tie rods, score the rack bar and leave the steering feeling notchy or vague.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to eyeball the boots every 10,000–15,000 km or at each scheduled service. Look for splits, perishing, loose or missing clamps, or grease flung around the inner wheel area. If a boot is torn, replace it straight away—leaving it can turn a cheap boot job into a spendy rack or inner tie rod replacement. Clamps are typically single-use, so plan on new ones with the new boot.

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech: remove the tie rod end, slide off the old boot, clean and regrease as specified, then fit the new boot and clamps. Because the tie rod end is disturbed, checking and adjusting front toe is good practise afterwards to protect tyres and keep the steering tracking straight. Use proper band clamps rather than cable ties, and don’t twist the boot during fitment—some racks rely on air equalisation across the bellows, and a kinked boot can bind.

• Signs it’s time: visible cracking or tear, grease spray near the inner wheel, water/dirt inside the boot, notchy steering, play in the inner tie rod.
• Service tip: keep the boot’s vent path clear and use the correct lithium soap base grease as specified by Toyota.

Does the 2013 Vitz/Yaris actually have rack boots?

It does. The XP130 platform uses a rack-and-pinion steering gear with bellows-type boots on each side. Toyota’s service procedures and parts listings explicitly include the rack boot and its clamps for these models.

How often should rack boots be replaced?

They’re not time-based items, they’re condition-based. Inspect at every service. Replace immediately if cracked, torn, swollen, or if clamps are loose. In Aussie and NZ conditions—with heat, UV and road debris—boots can age faster, so regular checks are worth it.

Is it safe to drive with a torn rack boot?

Short-term, the car may still steer, but every kilometre risks water and grit getting into the rack. That can quickly wear the inner tie rod and the rack bar. It can also trigger a WOF/roadworthy fail. Best to book a replacement promptly and get the wheel alignment checked afterwards.