Parts for your 2017 Ford Escape-Rack boots

2017 Ford Escape rack-boots: purpose, checks and replacement

Based on Ford technical material, rack-boots are fitted to the 2017 Ford Escape. The Ford Workshop Manual (WSM) for the EPAS (Electric Power-Assisted Steering) rack lists removal and installation procedures for the steering gear boot/bellows, and Ford genuine parts catalogues show a “Boot – Steering Gear” for this model year. Aftermarket catalogues also list rack-and-pinion bellows for the 2017 Escape/Kuga platform. So, rack-boots are relevant on this vehicle.

On the 2017 Escape, the rack-boots (also called bellows) sit on each end of the rack-and-pinion steering gear. Their job is to keep water, dust, and road grit away from the inner tie rods and the polished rack bar, while allowing full steering travel. Even though the Escape uses EPAS rather than a hydraulic pump, the steering gear still relies on grease-lubricated joints and seals that need clean, dry conditions. Intact boots prevent corrosion, abrasive wear, and premature play in the inner tie rods.

As part of regular servicing, the boots deserve a quick look every 10,000–15,000 km. With the front end safely raised, a tech will turn the steering from lock to lock and inspect each boot for splits, perishing, weeping grease, or loose/damaged clamps. Any oil contamination from a nearby leak can swell rubber, so that’s flagged too. They’ll also check for inner tie rod free play, because a torn boot often lets in grit that accelerates joint wear.

If a boot is cracked, soft, or pulled off its seat, replacement is the go. It’s good practice to renew clamps with proper ear or band clamps (not cable ties), and ensure the boot isn’t twisted or over-stretched at full lock. Where inner tie rods are worn, doing both the rod and boot together saves hassle. A wheel alignment is recommended after any steering work so toe is set correctly. On EPAS vehicles, keeping the rack centred and, if required by procedure, performing a steering angle sensor reset helps maintain driver-assist stability.

Driving long with a torn rack-boot is a false economy. Water and grit can pit the rack bar and chew out the inner tie rod, leading to clunks, vague steering, and extra alignment costs. For WOF/RWC inspections, a split or unsecured boot can also attract a fail. Catching it early keeps the Escape’s steering tight and the tyres wearing nice and even.

• Tell-tales: grease flung on the inside of the wheel/guard, visible splits, or a boot that’s slipped off its seat.
• Best practice: inspect every service, replace promptly if damaged, align wheels after repairs.

Do all 2017 Ford Escapes have steering rack-boots?
Yes. The EPAS steering rack still uses bellows-style boots on both ends to protect the inner tie rods and the rack bar. They’re commonly listed as steering gear boots or rack-and-pinion bellows in Ford and aftermarket parts catalogues.

How often should rack-boots be replaced on a 2017 Escape?
There’s no set interval—boots are replaced on condition. They should be inspected at each service and replaced if split, perished, oil-soaked, or if clamps are loose. Vehicles used on gravel roads, through floodwater, or with underbody oil leaks may need earlier attention.

Is it okay to drive with a torn rack-boot?
Short trips to a workshop are usually fine, but ongoing driving isn’t wise. A torn boot lets in water and grit, which can damage the inner tie rod and rack surface, leading to costly steering repairs and poor tyre wear. Replace the boot and check alignment promptly.