Parts for your 2016 Ford Mondeo-Rack boots

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

Rack boots are absolutely fitted and relevant on the 2016 Ford Mondeo. Technical references including the Ford Workshop Manual (WSM) for CD391/Mondeo (Section 211-02 Steering System), the Motorcraft/Ford service parts catalogue, and common OEM-equivalent parts listings identify “steering gear bellows/boots” on both sides of the electric power steering (EPAS) rack. Those bellows protect the rack bar and inner tie rods from road grit and moisture.

On the 2016 Mondeo, the rack boots (also called bellows or gaiters) act like flexible dust covers. They seal the moving end of the steering rack where the inner tie rod lives, keeping grease in and crud out. That matters even more on EPAS racks: a torn boot can let water track into the rack, corroding the bar or inner joint and turning a cheap boot job into a very pricey steering rack replacement.

For servicing, they’re a quick visual check item. At each service interval or WOF inspection, look for cracks, splits, missing clamps, or grease stains. If there’s any tear, replace the boot straight away and inspect the inner tie rod for play. A wheel alignment is recommended after any work that disturbs the tie rod adjustment.

• Common signs a Mondeo rack boot needs attention:
  • Perished or cracked rubber, oil/grease misting, or dampness inside the boot
  • Clicking/knocking over bumps or a slight dead spot off centre
  • Uneven tyre wear after a torn boot allowed contamination into the inner joint

When replacing, use quality boots matched to the Mondeo’s EPAS rack, new clamps, and correct orientation so the bellows don’t bind at full lock. Don’t over-pack with grease, the joint should be lubricated as specified, but excess can balloon the boot. Many racks rely on air equalisation between sides — if your rack uses a balance path or tube, make sure it’s reinstated so pressure can equalise lock-to-lock. Avoid blasting boots with a pressure washer and keep engine bay cleaners off the rubber.

There’s no routine kilometre-based replacement, instead, it’s condition-based. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions, inspections every service (10,000–15,000 km) are smart. If one side fails, consider doing both sides together. After refitting, set the toe and road-test for steering feel. No special EPAS programming is typically needed for a boot-only job, but alignment is a must.

Popular questions about 2016 Ford Mondeo rack boots

Are rack boots the same as steering gaiters on a 2016 Mondeo?
Yes. “Rack boots,” “bellows,” and “steering gaiters” are different names for the same flexible covers on the rack ends. They protect the inner tie rod and rack bar from grime and water, which is vital on the Mondeo’s EPAS rack.

How often should rack boots be replaced?
There’s no set interval. Inspect at every service and replace at the first sign of cracking, weeping, or a split. Harsh sun, ozone, and road debris can age the rubber faster, so regular checks are cheap insurance.

Can you drive with a torn rack boot?
It’ll still steer, but it’s risky. A torn boot lets in water and grit that can chew out the inner tie rod or corrode the rack. Short trips to a workshop are fine, but prompt replacement plus an alignment will save bigger bills later.