Parts for your 2017 Mazda Cx-5-Rack boots

2017 Mazda CX-5 Rack Boots: What They Do and When to Replace Them

Technical sources confirm the 2017 Mazda CX‑5 (KF series) is fitted with rack boots. Mazda’s Workshop Manual for the CX‑5 (Steering System – Electric Power Steering) shows bellows‑style steering gear boots at each end of the rack, and the Mazda Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) lists “Boot, Steering Gear” for both left and right sides. Common parts diagrams and local repair data services also depict the boots and clamps. So rack boots are absolutely relevant on this model.

On this CX‑5, the rack boots (also called steering rack gaiters) are the flexible bellows that seal the inner tie‑rod joints and the ends of the rack. Their job is to keep grease in and keep water, sand, and road grit out. Even though the car uses electric power steering, the mechanical rack and inner tie‑rods still need that protection. If a boot splits, grit and moisture can chew out the inner tie‑rod socket and rack seals, which can snowball into costly steering gear damage.

As part of routine servicing, an easy visual check goes a long way. Look for perished rubber, small cracks in the folds, grease flung onto the subframe, or loose/missing clamps. After beach driving or unsealed roads, it’s smart to recheck—salt and sand are brutal. There’s no fixed replacement interval, the rule is simple: if a boot is torn, oil‑soaked, hardened, or misshapen, replace it promptly. Many techs prefer replacing in pairs to keep wear even.

When replacing, quality matters. Use OEM or reputable aftermarket boots and the correct ear‑type or screw clamps—cable ties are a no‑go. Don’t overpack with grease, just renew what the manual specifies at the inner joint. Keep the rack centred, match boot length and venting, and seat the clamps properly to prevent chafing. If the inner or outer tie‑rod is disturbed, a wheel alignment is recommended—most shops will plan for that.

Typical clues it’s time to act include light knocking over bumps, notchy steering, or visible splits with dirt inside the bellows. In Australia and New Zealand, a split rack boot can attract a roadworthy/WOF fail because it risks contamination and premature steering wear. Prompt attention keeps the steering precise, protects the EPS rack, and saves a wallet‑ache later on.

• Check at each service or every 10,000–15,000 km
• Replace immediately if split, perished, or clamps are loose
• Book a wheel alignment if tie‑rods are adjusted or removed

Popular questions about 2017 Mazda CX‑5 rack boots

Does the 2017 Mazda CX‑5 actually have rack boots?
Yes. The Mazda Workshop Manual for the KF series and the Mazda EPC both show and list bellows‑type steering gear boots on the left and right sides of the rack. They’re standard kit on this model despite the electric power steering.

Do rack boots affect a WOF or roadworthy?
They can. A split or missing boot lets in grit and moisture, which can lead to steering wear. Inspectors in NZ (WOF) and AU roadworthy checks may fail the vehicle if a rack boot is torn, loose, or leaking grease because it compromises steering integrity.

Is a wheel alignment needed after replacing rack boots?
If the inner or outer tie‑rod is loosened or removed to slip the new boot on, a wheel alignment is recommended. It ensures toe is spot on and the CX‑5 tracks straight, protecting tyres and steering feel.