Parts for your 2016 Ford Territory-Rack boots

2016 Ford Territory rack-boots — purpose, care, and when to replace

Technical sources confirm the 2016 Ford Territory (SZ MkII) uses a power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering gear fitted with flexible rack-boots (also called steering rack gaiters) on both ends. This is outlined in Ford’s Territory SZ MkII Workshop Manual (Steering, Section 211-02), while common service data (e.g., Autodata) and major Australian/NZ parts catalogues list replacement rack-boot kits for 2011–2016 Territory models. So yes—rack-boots are relevant and used on the 2016 Ford Territory.

On this Territory, the rack-boots protect the inner tie rod joints and the rack bar from dust, water, and road grime, and help keep contaminants away from the rack seals. They flex as the steering moves, sealing the ends of the rack so grit can’t chew out the inner joints or work its way to the seals. If a boot perishes or splits, water and silt can get in, quickly wearing the inner tie rod, causing notchy steering, and potentially leading to power steering fluid seepage past compromised seals.

Good practice during routine servicing is to visually inspect both boots every time the vehicle is on a hoist—look for cracks, splits, missing or loose clamps, and any sign of oil or fluid inside the boot. A damp, oily boot can hint at a leaking rack seal and should be checked promptly. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions (heat, UV, and rough roads), it’s sensible to check them at every service interval and definitely by 10,000–15,000 km if driving on gravel or in coastal areas.

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech: remove the outer tie-rod end, slide off the old boot and clamps, inspect the inner tie rod for play, then fit a quality boot with proper clamps (not flimsy cable ties). Don’t pack the boot with grease—just a light smear where specified—because the system’s hydraulic and over-greasing can affect movement. Centre the steering so the boot sits naturally without twist, and use new clamps to ensure a proper seal. Any time a tie-rod end or boot is removed, a wheel alignment is recommended even if the number of turns was counted during disassembly. Always torque fasteners to Ford service specifications.

Ignoring damaged rack-boots risks accelerated steering wear and can cause a WOF or roadworthy failure. Fresh, intact boots keep the Territory’s steering tight, quiet, and compliant—exactly how it should feel.

• Common signs a boot needs attention: visible splits, loose/missing clamps, dirt inside the bellows, oily residue, or uneven steering feel.
• Best practice: replace boots in pairs and recheck alignment afterwards.

FAQs

Does a 2016 Ford Territory actually have rack-boots?
Yes. The SZ MkII Territory uses a hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering gear with protective bellows on both ends. This is supported by Ford’s workshop manual for the Territory SZ MkII (Steering section) and by Australian/NZ parts listings that supply direct-fit rack-boot kits for 2011–2016 models.

How often should rack-boots be replaced on a Territory?
There’s no fixed kilometre interval—replace them when cracked, split, deformed, or if clamps are loose. Inspect at every service. Vehicles seeing gravel, off‑road, or coastal use may need closer attention due to UV, salt and debris exposure.

Can rack-boots be changed without needing a wheel alignment?
It’s possible to count the turns on the tie-rod end and get close, but a proper alignment is strongly recommended. Even a small change in toe can affect tyre wear and steering feel, so getting an alignment after boot or tie-rod work is the smart move.