Parts for your 2016 Subaru Exiga-Rack boots

2016 Subaru Exiga rack boots — what they do and when to replace them

Rack boots are absolutely used on the 2016 Subaru Exiga. Technical sources including the Subaru Factory Service Manual for the YA-series Exiga (Steering section) and the Subaru FAST parts catalogue list the steering gear as a rack-and-pinion assembly with protective bellows boots on both ends. Whether the vehicle is fitted with electric power steering or a hydraulic variant, those bellows-style boots (often called rack boots or steering rack gaiters) are specified to shield the inner tie rod joints and rack seals.

On a 2016 Exiga, the rack boots keep grit, water and road splash out of the rack-and-pinion while helping retain lubricant around the inner tie rod ball joints. They flex as the steering moves, protecting the rack shaft and seals from corrosion and wear. If a boot splits, moisture and dirt can get in, leading to stiff or notchy steering, inner joint wear, uneven tyre wear and, on hydraulic systems, contamination that can damage the rack seals.

As part of routine servicing in Australia and New Zealand, it’s smart to have the rack boots inspected every service or 10,000 km—whichever comes first. Look for cracks, oil or grease weeping, or loose clamps. Replace boots at the first sign of damage, once torn, the inner joint can deteriorate quickly and a simple boot job can turn into a full rack replacement. Even on EPS versions with no hydraulic fluid at the rack, the boots are still critical for keeping the mechanism clean and happy.

• Choose quality OEM-equivalent boots and the correct clamp style—many are single-use and shouldn’t be re-fitted.
• When replacing, remove the tie rod end, mark toe position, clean the rack area, and re-grease the inner joint to spec before installing the new boot.
• Avoid twisting the bellows, ensure the breather path isn’t blocked so the boot can expand and contract.
• Finish with a wheel alignment, even careful marking won’t guarantee perfect toe.

Common hints the Exiga’s rack boots need attention include clicking or knocking over bumps, grease flung on the crossmember, a damp boot (hydraulic variants), and fresh feathering on the front tyres. Catching it early keeps the steering precise and saves a bundle down the track.

Does the 2016 Subaru Exiga have steering rack boots?

Yes. Factory service information and OE parts catalogues for the YA-series Exiga specify bellows-type boots on both ends of the rack-and-pinion steering gear, regardless of EPS or hydraulic assist.

How often should rack boots be checked or replaced?

Check them every service or about every 10,000 km. Replace immediately if split, perished or leaking. Many last well past 100,000 km, but climate, gravel roads and road grime can shorten their life.

Is it safe to drive with a torn rack boot?

It’s not recommended. A split boot lets in water and grit that can quickly wear the inner tie rod and rack seals. Book the repair and a wheel alignment soon to avoid a much costlier steering rack replacement.