Parts for your 2014 Toyota Crown-Rack boots

2014 Toyota Crown Rack Boots: What They Do and How to Look After Them

Based on Toyota’s technical literature for the S210-series Crown (2012–2018)—including the Toyota Crown Repair Manual (Steering) and Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue—this model uses a rack-and-pinion steering assembly (hydraulic or electric depending on grade), and it is fitted with steering rack boots (also called bellows boots) on both sides of the rack. So yes, rack-boots are relevant and used on the 2014 Toyota Crown.

On the Crown, the rack boots seal the inner tie rods and the rack bar from grit, water, and road grime. They also help keep lubricants where they should be and, on hydraulic systems, discourage fluid contamination that can ruin seals. Even on the electric power steering variants, the boots are essential dust and moisture shields for the rack internals. When they split, the inner tie rod joints can cop a hiding from dirt, leading to play in the steering, uneven tyre wear, and, if hydraulic, potential fluid leaks and pump stress.

For regular servicing, a quick look at the rack boots is a smart move every 10,000–15,000 km or at each service. Any sign of cracking, perishing, oil misting, or dampness inside the boot is a red flag. If there’s a tear, replace both sides as a pair—boots are inexpensive compared with a steering rack rebuild.

• Signs a Crown’s rack-boot needs replacing:
  • Cracks or splits in the bellows
  • Grease or fluid weeping from the ends
  • Clicking or play from inner tie rod area
  • Uneven or accelerated front tyre wear

Replacement is straightforward with the right kit: mark the tie rod length for alignment, remove the outer tie rod end, slide off the old boot, inspect the inner joint and rack seal, then fit the new boot with proper clamps—not zip ties—so it seals nicely. After any tie rod or boot work, a wheel alignment is a must. For owners in Australia and New Zealand, torn rack boots can cause a WOF/roadworthy failure, so it’s worth tackling early.

Quality OEM-style boots last longer, and pairing them with fresh inner tie rod dust caps and proper grease gives the 2014 Crown’s steering a quieter, tighter feel. If the vehicle often sees wet roads or gravel, consider shorter inspection intervals.

Popular questions about 2014 Toyota Crown rack-boots

How often should rack boots be replaced on a 2014 Toyota Crown?
There isn’t a strict kilometre-based interval, they’re replaced on condition. With normal city and motorway use, many last well past 100,000 km. Inspect them at each service and replace immediately if you see cracking, tears, or contamination.

If the car is driven on gravel or in coastal conditions, check them more frequently as grit and salt accelerate rubber ageing.

Will torn rack boots fail a WOF or roadworthy?
Yes, in most cases. A split rack boot can allow dirt into the steering gear and is usually flagged during WOF/roadworthy checks in NZ and Australia. Sorting it early avoids bigger steering repairs and a failed inspection.

Can universal rack boots be used, or should they be OEM?
Universal boots can work in a pinch, but correct-length OEM or OEM-equivalent boots fit better, clamp properly, and flex as designed through the Crown’s steering range. That means better sealing, less chafe, and longer service life.