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Parts for your 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer-Rack boots
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2016 Mitsubishi Lancer rack boots — what they do and when to replace
Yes, rack boots are absolutely used on the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer. This is confirmed by Mitsubishi’s factory Workshop Manual for the CF-series (2015–2017) in Group 37 – Steering, and by the Mitsubishi ASA Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC), which shows a steering rack-and-pinion with bellows-style “steering gear boots” on both sides of the rack. Aftermarket parts catalogues for the 2016 Lancer also list replacement rack boots, reinforcing that they’re fitted from factory.
On a 2016 Lancer, the rack boots (also called bellows) sit at each end of the steering rack, sealing the inner tie rod and the rack bar from grit, water, and road splash. They expand and contract as the wheels turn, keeping the steering grease in and the nasties out. Whether the car’s got electric or hydraulic assist, the mechanical rack still relies on intact boots to prevent premature wear of the inner joints and rack seals.
They don’t have a fixed service interval, but they should be inspected at every service or whenever an alignment is done. Aussie and Kiwi roads can be harsh—UV, gravel, and road grime all age the rubber.
- Common signs it’s time to replace: visible cracks, splits, missing clamps, grease thrown onto the subframe, moisture or dirt inside the boot, notchy steering, or a WOF/rego fail for a torn boot.
- Ignoring a torn boot can let grit chew out the inner tie rod and rack seals, leading to play in the steering and costly rack replacement.
When replacing, it’s a straightforward job for a workshop and very DIY-able with the right tools. Usually the outer tie rod end is removed so the old boot can slide off. Marking the tie-rod position helps preserve toe, but it’s smart to book a wheel alignment afterwards.
- Support the vehicle safely and remove the front wheel for access.
- Crack the tie-rod locknut, remove the outer tie rod end from the knuckle, and slide off the old boot.
- Wipe out any contamination, don’t overpack with grease—use only the specified steering grease if required.
- Fit the new boot without twisting it and secure with proper clamps (avoid generic cable ties).
- Refit the tie rod to the marked position, torque to spec, and arrange an alignment.
Choosing quality rubber or thermoplastic boots pays off. A tidy boot keeps the Lancer’s steering tight, quiet, and compliant over many more kilometres.
How often should rack boots be replaced on a 2016 Lancer?
They’re condition-based, not mileage-based. Check them at every service or alignment. In Australia and New Zealand, the mix of heat, UV, and road debris can age rubber faster, so catching small cracks early avoids inner tie rod and rack damage.
Can rack boots be changed without needing a wheel alignment?
If the outer tie rod end is removed to slide the boot on (which is common), the toe setting can shift. Marking the tie rod helps, but a post-repair alignment is recommended to keep tyre wear and steering feel spot-on.
What happens if someone keeps driving with a torn rack boot?
Dirt and water can get into the inner tie rod joint and onto the rack bar, accelerating wear. That can lead to play, clunks, heavier steering, and potentially a leaking or damaged rack—much pricier than a simple boot replacement.
