Parts for your 2014 Ford Mondeo-Rack boots

2014 Ford Mondeo rack-boots — what they do, when to replace, and how to look after them

Based on technical sources including the Ford Workshop Manual (Steering, Section 211-02), Ford ETIS/Service Information, and Ford’s electronic parts catalogue (Microcat), the 2014 Ford Mondeo is fitted with steering rack boots (also called gaiters or bellows) on both hydraulic and electric power steering (EPAS) variants. So yes — rack-boots are relevant on this model.

Rack-boots are the flexible rubber bellows that sit at each end of the steering rack, sealing around the inner tie rods. Their job is simple but critical: they keep grit, water, and road grime away from the rack bar, inner tie rod joints, and rack seals. They also help retain the correct grease and allow the rack to move freely without contamination chewing out the joints. On hydraulic racks, a split boot can let fluid weep or trap fluid if an internal seal has failed, on EPAS racks, a torn boot can quickly lead to corrosion and stiffness.

For a 2014 Mondeo used in Aussie or Kiwi conditions, a quick visual check of the rack-boots at every service (around 10,000–15,000 km) is smart. Look for splits, perishing, loose clamps, or damp/oily residue. Symptoms that suggest attention is due include:

• Grease or power steering fluid around the boot area
• Clicking, clunks, or notchiness when turning the wheel
• Uneven tyre wear or wandering steering

If a boot’s damaged, replace it promptly. Driving with a torn boot lets in abrasive muck that can trash the inner tie rod and rack seals, turning a cheap boot job into a spendy rack replacement. When fitting new boots, use quality OE-spec bellows and proper clamps (not cable ties), avoid twisting the boot during install, and ensure any breather feature (if fitted) isn’t pinched. Inner tie rods often need to be separated to slide the new boot on, so a wheel alignment is recommended afterwards to set toe correctly. Always follow torque specs and procedures in the Ford workshop manual.

On hydraulic versions, fluid inside the boot may indicate an internal rack seal leak — replacing the boot alone won’t cure that. On EPAS racks, keep an eye out for water ingress after deep puddles or gravel-road use, especially before WOF/rego checks.

Popular questions about 2014 Ford Mondeo rack-boots

Do EPAS Mondeos still have rack-boots?
Yes. Even with electric power assist, the Mondeo’s rack uses bellows on each end to protect the inner tie rods and rack bar. They don’t hold power steering fluid on EPAS models, but they’re just as important for keeping dust and water out.

How often should rack-boots be replaced?
They’re not a timed service item. Inspect at every service and replace as soon as any cracking, splitting, or loose clamps are found. In harsher climates or on gravel roads, expect faster ageing of the rubber.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing rack-boots?
Usually, yes. Because the inner tie rod or outer tie rod end is disturbed to fit the new boot, toe can shift. A post-repair alignment helps protect your tyres and restores straight-line stability.