Parts for your 2014 Toyota Fortuner-Rack boots

2014 Toyota Fortuner rack-boots — what they do and when to replace them

Based on the Toyota Fortuner AN50/AN60 Workshop Manual (Steering — Power Steering — Steering Gear) and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue used by Toyota dealers in Australia and New Zealand, the 2014 Fortuner runs a hydraulic rack‑and‑pinion steering gear that uses bellows‑style rack boots on both ends of the rack. So yes, rack‑boots are absolutely relevant on this model.

On a 2014 Fortuner, the rack‑boots (also called steering rack dust boots) protect the inner tie‑rods and the rack bar from dust, mud, water and road grit. The flexible bellows allow full steering movement while keeping grease in and contamination out. That’s especially important for Aussie and Kiwi conditions where corrugations, red dust, beach sand and the odd river crossing can all have a go at the steering gear. Intact boots help the power steering rack seals live longer and keep the steering light and precise.

They’re not a set‑and‑forget item, though. Over time rubber can perish, crack, or split from age, heat and UV. A torn boot lets water and grit in, which can quickly chew out the inner tie‑rod joint or score the rack shaft. If a boot is oily inside, that can point to a leaking rack seal that deserves attention. Many roadworthy/WOF checks will ping a split rack boot, so it’s worth keeping an eye on them.

• Inspect the rack‑boots at every service (or ~10,000–15,000 km), especially after off‑road trips or water crossings.
• Replace any boot that’s cracked, torn or oil‑soaked. Do both sides if one has failed.
• Use quality clamps (not cable ties) and seat the boot properly in its grooves to keep it sealed.
• While the boot is off, check inner tie‑rod play and the rack shaft surface, fix wear before fitting new boots.
• Book a wheel alignment after any steering work to keep tyre wear even.

Good practice in the workshop helps boots last: don’t let the knuckle hang off the tie‑rod, avoid solvents on rubber, and don’t over‑stretch the bellows when turning the wheel lock‑to‑lock on a hoist. With regular checks and timely replacement, the Fortuner’s rack‑boots will keep the steering gear happy for the long haul.

Popular questions about 2014 Toyota Fortuner rack‑boots

Do all 2014 Fortuner variants have rack‑boots?
Yes. The 2014 AN50/AN60 Fortuner sold in Australia and New Zealand uses a hydraulic rack‑and‑pinion steering gear across the range, which has bellows‑type rack boots on both ends. If in doubt, a quick look behind the front wheels will show the boots on the steering rack housing.

How often should rack‑boots be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval. They’re a condition‑based item: inspect them at each service and replace when they show cracks, splits, or are oil‑soaked. In harsher environments or with regular off‑road use, expect to replace them sooner.

Is it safe to drive with a split rack‑boot?
It’s not ideal. A split boot lets in water and grit that can damage the inner tie‑rod and the rack shaft, potentially leading to costly steering rack repairs and a failed roadworthy/WOF. Replace a torn boot promptly and check for any underlying rack seal issues.