Parts for your 2014 Subaru Impreza-Rack boots

2014 Subaru Impreza rack boots — what they do and how to look after them

Rack boots are absolutely used on the 2014 Subaru Impreza. Technical sources including the Subaru Impreza 2012–2016 Service Manual (Steering section) and Subaru’s FAST electronic parts catalogue for the GP/GJ chassis identify a bellows-type “steering gear boot” on each side of the rack-and-pinion. General repair guides such as Haynes/Autodata also list inspection of steering rack bellows as a routine item. Even though the 2014 Impreza typically runs electric power steering, the rack still relies on these boots to protect the inner tie rods and rack gear.

On this model, the rack boots (also called bellows) keep grit, water, and road splash out of the rack-and-pinion while allowing full steering movement. They also help retain the correct grease around the inner tie rod joints. If a boot tears, the inner tie rod and rack teeth can corrode or wear, leading to play in the steering, knocks over bumps, and rapid or uneven tyre wear. With electric power steering there’s no hydraulic fluid to leak, so owners may not see oil—but they might spot moisture, rust stains, or sand inside the boot area if it’s split.

Best practice is to have the rack boots checked at every service (around 10,000–15,000 km) or if there’s a steering knock, wandering, or uneven tyres. When replacing, quality matters: genuine or OEM-spec boots fit the rack’s grooves properly and clamp securely. It’s smart to replace boots in pairs, use new clamps, and avoid twisting the bellows on install. Don’t pack the boot full of grease—only the inner tie-rod joint needs the specified amount. Many EPS racks use a small internal vent path between boots, so keep the boots sealed with their proper clamps but don’t block any designed breather.

• Tell-tale signs a boot is gone: visible splits or perishing, grease flung around the inner guard, light surface rust on the inner tie rod, new steering noises, or a freshly developed toe-out/tyre scrub.
• Replacement tips: remove the outer tie-rod end (count the turns), slide off the old boot, inspect the inner tie rod and rack, fit the new boot in the correct grooves, then refit the tie-rod end to the same turns.

Because toe can still shift, a wheel alignment is recommended after any rack-boot or tie-rod work. That way the Impreza steers straight and the tyres live a long, happy life.

FAQs

Does the 2014 Subaru Impreza have rack boots?
Yes. The GP/GJ-generation Impreza uses a rack-and-pinion with a bellows boot on each side. Subaru’s 2012–2016 Service Manual and the Subaru FAST parts catalogue both show the steering gear boots and their clamps as standard components.

What are common signs the rack boots need replacing?
Cracks or splits in the bellows, grease thrown around the inner guard, new clunks over bumps, a looser steering feel, or uneven tyre wear are all common signs. If dirt or water has made it inside, the inner tie rod may show surface rust.

Do I need a wheel alignment after changing rack boots?
It’s highly recommended. Even if the outer tie-rod end is refitted to the same number of turns, small variations can alter toe. A post-repair alignment keeps the Impreza tracking straight and protects the tyres.