Parts for your 2016 Ford Escape-Rack boots

2016 Ford Escape rack-boots — what they do and when to replace them

Yes — the 2016 Ford Escape is fitted with rack-boots on its electric power‑assisted steering (EPAS) rack-and-pinion. This is supported by Ford service literature for the 2013–2019 Escape/Kuga steering gear, which depicts bellows-style boots at each end of the rack, Ford Genuine Parts/Motorcraft catalogues list a “steering gear boot/bellows” for this model range, and mainstream aftermarket catalogues also supply rack bellows for the 2016 Escape. So rack‑boots are absolutely relevant on this vehicle.

On the Escape, rack‑boots (also called bellows) protect the inner tie rods and the polished rack bar from grit, water and road grime. They also help retain lubricant on the inner joints. Because this model uses EPAS, the boots don’t hold hydraulic fluid, they’re purely dust and moisture barriers. If a boot splits or its clamp loosens, contamination can quickly chew out the inner tie rod or score the rack, leading to play, noise and poor steering feel.

As part of servicing, it’s smart to eyeball the rack‑boots every service or 10,000–15,000 kilometres. Under the bonnet and with the front wheels turned side to side, check for:

• Cracks, splits, or perished rubber/plastic
• Grease fling or dampness around the boot ends
• Loose, missing or makeshift clamps
• Water or grit inside the boot if the clamp has been open

If a boot is damaged, replace it promptly — ideally as a pair. Replacement typically involves removing the wheel, loosening the outer tie rod end from the knuckle, sliding off the old clamps and boot, then fitting the new boot with the correct clamps. Many clamps are single‑use, refit with proper ear or band clamps rather than generic cable ties. Make sure the boot isn’t twisted and that any breather feature is oriented correctly so it doesn’t suck in water when steering from lock to lock.

Any time a tie rod is disturbed, a wheel alignment should follow — it’s the best way to avoid scrubbing tyres and a crooked steering wheel. If a torn boot has let in water for a while, check inner tie rod play and inspect the rack for corrosion, catching it early can save the steering gear. While EPAS doesn’t need fluid top‑ups, keeping the rack‑boots healthy is key to long, quiet, precise steering.

Popular questions about 2016 Ford Escape rack‑boots

Do the rack‑boots on a 2016 Escape contain power steering fluid?
They don’t. The 2016 Escape uses EPAS, so there’s no hydraulic fluid in the steering rack. The boots act as dust and water seals. If a boot looks wet, it’s usually grease from the inner tie rod, or contamination from another leak nearby.

Will replacing a rack‑boot require a wheel alignment?
Generally yes. Because the outer tie rod end is removed or shifted to slide the boot off, the toe setting can change. A proper alignment after the job helps protect tyres and keeps the steering wheel centred.

Can cable ties be used to secure new rack‑boots?
They’re not recommended. Proper ear or band clamps grip evenly and stay tight under heat and motion. Heavy‑duty ties are sometimes used in a pinch, but a compliant clamp is the professional, longer‑lasting solution.