Parts for your 2016 Volvo Xc60-Rack boots

2016 Volvo XC60 rack-boots: what they do and when to replace them

Rack-boots (also called steering rack bellows or gaiters) are fitted to the 2016 Volvo XC60. Volvo VIDA for MY2016 (Group 64: Steering) and the Volvo Genuine Parts electronic catalogue show a bellows/boot on each end of the steering gear to cover the inner tie rod and rack bar. Independent manuals such as the Haynes Volvo XC60 2008–2016 guide also reference periodic inspection of the steering rack gaiters. Whether the vehicle is equipped with hydraulic power steering or an electric rack (varies by engine/trim), both systems use protective rack-boots.

On this model, the rack-boots do the unglamorous but crucial job of sealing out grit, road splash, and ozone from the inner tie rod joint and the rack itself. They also allow the rack to move freely without exposing the polished rack bar. If a boot splits or its clamp loosens, water and dust can chew through the inner tie rod and rack seals, leading to play at the wheel, heavy steering, or leaks on hydraulic setups. On electric racks there’s no power-steering fluid to leak, but a torn boot can still fast-track wear in the inner joint and rack bushings.

As part of routine servicing on a 2016 XC60, a quick visual check under the front end goes a long way. Look for cracks, oil staining inside a boot (a red flag for internal rack seal issues on hydraulic cars), or perished rubber. Gently squeeze the bellows — it should be supple, not brittle.

• Replace boots at the first sign of splitting, deep cracking, or loose clamps.
• Always fit new clamps (ear/Oetiker style), not cable ties, to maintain proper sealing.
• If the boot has a breather/vent, ensure the hose is reconnected and not kinked.
• Expect a wheel alignment after replacement, as the outer tie rod is usually removed.
• If fluid is found inside the boot on a hydraulic rack, have the steering gear assessed — a boot alone won’t fix an internal seal leak.

Quality matters: OE or premium aftermarket boots hold up better to heat and ozone, especially in Aussie and Kiwi conditions. When ordering, match the rack type and side, as some variants differ. With intact boots, the XC60’s steering stays tight, quiet, and drama-free for the long haul.

Popular questions

Do all 2016 Volvo XC60s have rack-boots?
Yes. Technical sources including Volvo VIDA and the Volvo parts catalogue show a bellows/boot on each end of the steering rack across 2016 XC60 variants. Both hydraulic and electric racks use them to shield the inner tie rods and rack bar.

How often should rack-boots be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval — they’re condition-based. Inspect at every service. In Australia and New Zealand, heat and UV can age rubber faster, if the boots look cracked, oily, or loose, replace them straight away to protect the rack and keep the WOF/rego inspector happy.

Is it okay to drive with a torn rack-boot?
Short trips might seem fine, but grit and water can quickly damage the inner tie rod and rack seals. On hydraulic cars, a torn boot can hide fluid from a leaking rack. It’s best to book a repair promptly and get an alignment after the boot is replaced.