Parts for your 2016 Toyota Avensis-Rack boots

2016 Toyota Avensis rack-boots: purpose, care and when to replace

Rack-boots are absolutely used on the 2016 Toyota Avensis. Technical sources including Toyota’s Repair Manual (TIS) and Electronic Parts Catalogue for the T27-series Avensis list “Boot, Steering Rack” on each side of the electric power steering rack-and-pinion. Independent references like Autodata and the Haynes Avensis guide also describe these parts as rack boots, bellows or gaiters that seal the inner tie rod and rack bar.

On this Avensis, the rack-boots are flexible bellows that keep grit, water and road splash out of the steering rack while letting the inner tie rods move freely. They also help equalise air pressure inside the rack ends. Because the steering on the T27 is electric-assist, there’s no power steering fluid to leak from the rack itself, but a torn boot can still let in muck that chews out the inner tie rods and the rack’s seals, shortening the life of an expensive assembly.

Good practice for Aussie and Kiwi owners is to have the rack-boots inspected at every service (roughly every 10,000–15,000 km). A quick visual check on a hoist goes a long way. Look for splits or perishing, loose or missing clamps, and damp grime that hints at inner tie rod wear. Many WOF/MoT failures happen because a boot is torn or not secured.

Replacement is a straightforward job for a workshop and usually done with the car on a hoist:

• Remove the wheel, mark and undo the outer tie rod end, slide off the old boot and clamps.
• Clean the area, slide on a new quality boot, refit new clamps (never reuse rusty ones), and reinstall the tie rod end.
• Reconnect any breather tube between boots where fitted on EPS racks.
• Finish with a wheel alignment to keep tyre wear even and steering feel spot on.

There’s no strict time-based replacement interval, boots are changed on condition. In hot, coastal or gravel-road use, rubber can age faster, so plan on more frequent checks. If one side fails, the other may not be far behind—some owners opt to replace them as a pair. Using OE-spec or premium aftermarket boots pays off, as they hold their shape and resist cracking better than bargain options.

Signs it’s time to act include a visible split, clicking or knocking over bumps from a worn inner tie rod, steering that feels a bit vague, or a fresh WOF/MoT advisory. Sort a damaged boot early and the Avensis’s steering rack will usually go the distance without a fuss.

Popular questions about 2016 Toyota Avensis rack-boots

Do all 2016 Avensis models have rack-boots?

Yes. Whether petrol or diesel, the T27 Avensis uses a rack-and-pinion steering gear with a rubber bellows boot on each side. Toyota’s parts listings and workshop procedures show them as standard fitment across the range.

How often should rack-boots be replaced?

They don’t have a fixed interval. Replace on condition—if they’re split, perished, loose, or contaminated. Inspect them at each service (about every 10,000–15,000 km), and always realign the wheels after any steering work.

Can I keep driving with a torn rack-boot?

It’ll still steer, but it’s not a good idea. A torn boot lets grit and water in, which can wear the inner tie rod and the rack, leading to play, noise and costly repairs. Replace the boot promptly and check the inner tie rod for wear.