Parts for your 2013 Toyota Wish-Rack boots

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

Based on Toyota’s own technical literature and catalogues, rack boots are absolutely used on the 2013 Toyota Wish. The Toyota Electronic Parts Catalog for the ZGE20/ZGE25 series (2012–2017) lists a “Boot, Steering Gear” with dedicated clamps each side of the rack, and the Toyota Repair Manual for the same platform details removal, inspection and refit of the steering rack bellows. Major OEM parts catalogues also show these boots for the 2013 Wish. So, yes — the vehicle is fitted with rack boots from factory.

On the 2013 Toyota Wish, rack boots (also called steering rack bellows or gaiters) seal and protect the inner tie rod joints and rack bar from grit, water and road splash. They keep the correct grease where it belongs and stop corrosion chewing out the rack. Even though the Wish uses an electric-assist steering setup, it still relies on a rack-and-pinion with inner tie rods that need that protective bellows.

For servicing, it’s smart to have the rack boots checked at every service or at least every 10,000–15,000 kilometres. A split, hardened or oil-soaked boot invites dirt in, which can accelerate inner tie rod wear and cause play or knocking over bumps. In NZ, a torn boot is a common WOF fail, in Australia it’ll raise eyebrows at a roadworthy, too.

Replacement is straightforward workshop work. A technician will remove the outer tie rod end, slide off the old boot and clamps, clean the area and inspect the inner tie rod for free play. If the joint is sound, fresh multipurpose NLGI No.2 grease can be applied to the ball socket as per the repair manual, then a new boot and clamps are fitted. Care matters here — the bellows shouldn’t be twisted, and any breather hole or equalisation feature needs to sit correctly so the boot doesn’t balloon or suck in. Once reassembled, a wheel alignment is recommended because the tie rod end has been disturbed.

Drivers should watch for tell-tales like a visible split in the boot, grease flung on the inner wheel or subframe, uneven steering feel, or a light clunk when changing direction at low speed. Replacing boots early is cheap insurance that keeps the Wish’s steering precise and the rack in good nick for the long haul.

• Inspect at each service, replace if cracked, torn, loose or contaminated.
• Always use new clamps, don’t cable-tie unless the manufacturer permits.
• Book a wheel alignment after any tie rod or boot work.

Does the 2013 Toyota Wish actually have rack boots?

Yes. Toyota’s EPC for the ZGE20/ZGE25 series lists “Boot, Steering Gear” and clamps, and the official repair manual includes procedures to remove and refit the rack bellows. Aftermarket OEM catalogues also stock matched boots for this model year.

They’re standard fit on both sides of the steering rack to shield the inner tie rods and rack bar from grime and moisture.

How often should rack boots be checked or replaced on a 2013 Wish?

Have them checked at every service or roughly every 10,000–15,000 km, and sooner if you drive on gravel or in coastal areas. Replace immediately if you see a split, perishing, loose clamps, or grease escaping.

After replacement, get a wheel alignment to keep tyre wear and steering feel spot on.

What are the signs of a bad rack boot on a 2013 Toyota Wish?

Look for visible cracks or tears in the bellows, grease flung around the inner wheel area, dirt or water inside the boot, or a mild steering clunk. A torn boot may also trigger a WOF or roadworthy issue.

Sorting it early prevents corrosion and inner tie rod wear, saving the steering rack from costly damage.