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Parts for your 2016 Subaru Legacy-Rack boots
2016 Subaru Legacy rack boots: what they do and when to replace them
Rack boots are absolutely used on the 2016 Subaru Legacy. Technical sources that cover this model—the Subaru Factory Service Manual (Steering section for BN/BS chassis, 2015–2018) and the Subaru Electronic Parts Catalogue—both show a bellows-style steering gear boot fitted on each side of the electric power steering rack to cover the inner tie rods. These boots are identified in the EPC as “Boot – Steering Gear (Bellows)”, left and right, with corresponding clamps.
On the 2016 Legacy, the rack boots sit under the front end, sealing each end of the steering rack and shielding the inner tie rod joints. Their job is to keep water, grit, and road grime out, while allowing the steering to move freely lock-to-lock. A sound boot also helps retain the light lubricant around the inner tie-rod ball joint and prevents contamination that can wear out the rack’s seals. If a boot splits, water and dirt can quickly damage the inner joint and the rack itself—an expensive outcome that can also lead to a WOF/RWC fail.
It’s smart to include rack-boot checks in routine servicing. A quick look under the front with the wheels turned each way will usually show if there’s perishing, splits, missing clamps, or grease flung onto the crossmember. After flood driving or gravel-road work, they deserve another look. For most owners, inspection every service or 10,000–15,000 km is about right.
- Common signs of trouble: visible cracks or tears, loose or missing clamps, grease spray near the boot, a gritty feel or clunk from the inner tie rod, or moisture inside the boot.
- Why act early: a torn boot can let in water that corrodes the rack and inner joint, leading to play, noise, and alignment drift.
Replacing a boot isn’t complex for a competent tech. The steering should be centred, the outer tie rod end removed, then the old boot and clamps swapped for new quality parts. It’s best practice to:
- Mark or count outer tie-rod turns to preserve toe roughly.
- Use proper band clamps rather than cable ties.
- Check the inner tie-rod joint for smooth movement, replace if gritty or loose.
- Book a wheel alignment afterwards—counting turns is only a temporary guide.
Avoid packing the boot with grease, it needs to compress and expand as the rack moves, and any breather arrangement should remain unobstructed. With intact boots and correct clamps, the Legacy’s steering stays tight, quiet, and protected for the long haul.
Popular questions
Does the 2016 Subaru Legacy actually have rack boots?
Yes. The Subaru Factory Service Manual (BN/BS Steering section) and the Subaru EPC both illustrate bellows-style steering gear boots on the electric rack. They protect the inner tie rods and rack ends from contamination.
How often should rack boots be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval, they’re replaced when damaged or perished. Inspect them at every service or 10,000–15,000 km, and after off-road or flood exposure. If a boot is torn or clamps are loose, replace immediately to protect the rack.
Can a rack boot be replaced without a wheel alignment?
It can be physically replaced without one, but a wheel alignment is recommended. Counting turns or marking threads only gets the toe close, an alignment ensures correct tyre wear and steering feel.
