Parts for your 2015 Toyota Wish-Rack boots

2015 Toyota Wish rack boots: purpose and service advice

Based on Toyota’s technical literature, rack boots are absolutely relevant and fitted to the 2015 Toyota Wish (ZGE2# series). The Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue for the ZGE20/ZGE22/ZGE25 lists a “Boot, Steering Gear” on both sides of the rack (commonly in the 45535-xxxxx part family), and the Toyota workshop manual for the ZGE2# platform (Steering — Rack and Pinion sections) shows bellows-type boots protecting the inner tie rods and rack ends. Even though the Wish runs electric power steering, it still uses a rack-and-pinion assembly that requires these protective boots.

On the 2015 Toyota Wish, rack boots (also called steering rack bellows) keep road grit, water, and dust out of the rack-and-pinion and inner tie rods. They also help retain grease on the rack ends. If a boot splits, moisture and contaminants can chew out inner tie rod joints and the rack’s seals, which can lead to play in the steering, odd tyre wear, and expensive steering gear repairs. For Aussie and Kiwi driving—think heat, UV, gravel roads, and the odd water crossing—boots work hard and deserve a regular look.

For servicing, the smart play is to inspect the rack boots at every routine service or at least every 10,000–15,000 km. A quick torch check from lock to lock usually does it. If there’s cracking, oil or grease weeping, or the clamp has loosened, sort it before it snowballs. When replacement’s needed, do both sides as a pair and use quality clamps rather than cable ties. If an inner tie rod has any play, tackle it at the same time—you’re already there.

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech: straighten the wheel, mark toe settings, pop the outer tie rod off the knuckle, slide the old boot off, clean the rack end, then fit the new boot and clamps. A wheel alignment is recommended after any tie rod work. With fresh boots and proper clamps, the Wish’s steering stays tight, quiet, and compliant, and it helps keep the car happy for WOF/RWC checks.

• Tell-tales of trouble: split rubber, clicking or clunking over bumps, vague steering, uneven front tyre wear, or grease sprayed near the boot.
• Best practice: inspect at each service, replace in pairs, and align afterwards.

Popular questions about 2015 Toyota Wish rack boots

Are rack boots on a 2015 Toyota Wish different because it has electric power steering?

Not really. The Wish’s electric power steering still uses a mechanical rack-and-pinion. The boots are the same style of bellows that protect the inner tie rods and rack ends. They’re there to keep dust and water out and grease in, regardless of whether assistance is electric or hydraulic.

How often should the rack boots be checked on a 2015 Toyota Wish in Australia or New Zealand?

Have them inspected at every service or roughly every 10,000–15,000 kilometres. Harsh conditions—gravel roads, frequent rain, coastal salt—warrant more frequent checks. Any sign of cracking, oil mist, or loose clamps means it’s time to replace.

Will a torn rack boot fail a WOF or RWC?

Quite possibly. A split boot can allow contamination and may be noted as a defect during a WOF (NZ) or RWC (AU) inspection. If there’s play in the inner tie rod or grease leakage, it’s even more likely to be flagged. Replacing the boot and addressing any play usually resolves it.