Parts for your 2016 Toyota Crown-Rack boots

2016 Toyota Crown rack boots: what they do, why they matter, and when to replace them

Technical sources for the S210-series Toyota Crown (2013–2018) confirm the car uses a rack-and-pinion steering system with protective dust boots (commonly called rack boots) on each end of the steering gear. This is documented in Toyota’s Crown S210 Repair Manual – Steering (EPS) sections covering the steering gear and tie rods, the Toyota New Car Features (NCF) for S210, and Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC), which lists the steering gear “dust boot/rack boot” as serviceable components. So yes, the 2016 Toyota Crown is fitted with rack boots.

On a 2016 Toyota Crown, the rack boots seal the inner tie rods and the rack bar from road grit, water, and mud while keeping grease where it needs to be. Even with electric power steering, the rack, seals, and inner joints rely on those flexible bellows to stay clean and lubricated. When a boot splits, water and debris can chew out inner tie rods and rack seals, leading to play in the steering, noise, and costly repairs.

Owners in Australia and New Zealand see tougher conditions—heat, UV, corrugations, gravel, and coastal salt—so rack boots deserve a quick look at each service. A savvy workshop will check them at every 10,000–15,000 km service interval or during WOF/RWC/regos. If there’s any cracking, oil weep, or a missing clamp, it’s time to act.

Common signs a Crown’s rack boots need attention include:

• Visible cracks, splits, or oil-damp outer surfaces
• Grease sling on the inner rim or underbody
• Clicking or knock from the front end over bumps or when turning
• Uneven or vague steering feel

When replacement’s needed, proper fitment matters. A typical process involves removing the front wheel, separating the outer tie-rod end, counting the turns to preserve toe, sliding off the old boot, inspecting the inner tie rod and rack seal area, then fitting a quality boot with the correct inner/outer clamps. Avoid cable ties—use proper clamps to keep a reliable seal. After reassembly, a wheel alignment is recommended to keep tyre wear tidy.

Choose OE or reputable aftermarket boots made for the S210 Crown. Make sure the bellows aren’t twisted at full lock, clamps are snug, and breather features (if present) aren’t pinched. If there’s any sign of fluid from the rack or free play at the inner joint, address that before buttoning up. Following the torque specs and procedures in the Toyota Crown S210 Repair Manual will keep the steering precise and the rack protected for the long haul.

Popular questions about 2016 Toyota Crown rack boots

Do EPS-equipped Crowns still use rack boots?

They do. The 2016 Crown’s electric power steering drives an assist motor, but the steering gear is still rack-and-pinion with inner tie rods that need protection. The Toyota S210 Repair Manual and EPC both show dust boots on each side of the rack.

Without those boots, grit and moisture quickly damage the inner joints and rack seals, leading to looseness and expensive repairs.

How often should the rack boots be checked on a 2016 Crown?

Have them inspected at each service (about every 10,000–15,000 km) and after any kerb strike or deep pothole hit. In coastal or rural conditions across AU/NZ, more frequent checks are smart.

Early spotting of small cracks or loose clamps lets a workshop replace a boot before contaminants get inside and cause bigger issues.

Will a torn rack boot fail a WOF or RWC?

Often, yes. A split boot can be grounds for failure because it compromises steering integrity. Many inspectors flag oil-soaked or damaged boots, or any play caused by contamination.

Replace the boot promptly and get the alignment checked to maintain safe, predictable steering and clean up any compliance concerns.