Parts for your 2016 Subaru Forester-Rack boots

2016 Subaru Forester rack boots

Based on Subaru’s own technical literature, rack boots are absolutely used on the 2016 Subaru Forester (SJ). The Subaru Forester 2016 (SJ) Service Manual – Steering section shows bellows-type “Boot – Steering Gear” on both ends of the rack to cover the inner tie rods, and the Subaru Genuine Parts catalogue lists left- and right-hand steering rack boots for this model. So, yes — rack boots are relevant and fitted to this vehicle.

The rack boots on a 2016 Forester shield the rack-and-pinion and inner tie rods from grit, water and road grime, while keeping lubricating grease where it belongs. On this model, steering assistance is electric rather than hydraulic, but the mechanical rack still relies on intact boots to prevent contamination and wear. When a boot splits or perishes, dirt works its way onto the rack and inner joint, accelerating wear and inviting notchy steering or play.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the boots every service or 20,000 km. Look for cracks, oil/grease sling on the inner guards, loose clamps, or a boot that’s gone hard from age. Any tear means replacement — there’s no reliable repair once the bellows split.

• Typical signs it’s time: visible splits, grease seepage, clicking or clunking over bumps, uneven tyre wear, or failed WOF/roadworthy due to a damaged boot.
• Replacement notes: new boots and clamps should be fitted, inner clamps are usually single-use. The outer tie-rod end is removed, the old boot slides off, the area is cleaned, then the new boot is installed without twisting the bellows. Follow the Subaru workshop manual for torque specs and clamp type.
• Alignment: because the outer tie-rod is disturbed, a wheel alignment is recommended straight after.

Driving with a torn rack boot isn’t wise, it doesn’t take long for grit to chew up the inner joint or the rack, which turns a cheap boot job into a steering rack replacement. Quality aftermarket or genuine boots both do the trick if they match the Forester SJ spec. For Aussie and Kiwi conditions — gravel roads, beach trips, winter grime — keeping those boots intact is a small job that saves big money down the line.

Popular questions about 2016 Subaru Forester rack boots

Do all 2016 Foresters have rack boots?
Yes. The 2016 Forester (SJ) uses a rack-and-pinion with bellows boots on both sides, as shown in Subaru’s steering system service manual and parts catalogue. Petrol and diesel variants alike use the same boot concept.

How often should the rack boots be checked?
Have them inspected at every service or around every 20,000 km. Replace them immediately if cracked or torn. Age, UV, and off‑road dust can shorten their life, so earlier replacement isn’t unusual.

Is it safe to drive with a split rack boot?
It’s not recommended. A short, careful trip to a workshop is usually fine, but leaving it will let dirt into the inner tie rod and rack, causing wear, play and potential WOF/roadworthy issues. Sort it promptly and get an alignment afterwards.