Parts for your 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander-Rack boots

2017 Mitsubishi Outlander rack-boots: what they do and when to replace them

Technical sources confirm the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander is fitted with rack-boots (steering rack bellows) on each side of its rack-and-pinion steering. The Mitsubishi Motors Service Manual for Outlander (Steering – Rack and Pinion), the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue, and common aftermarket fitment guides all show bellows boots protecting the inner tie rods and rack bar. Even with electric power steering, these boots are essential.

The rack-boots’ job is straightforward but critical. They keep dust, sand, water and road grime out of the rack while letting the steering move freely. They also help retain grease for the inner tie rod joints. When a boot splits or the clamps loosen, grit gets in, grease gets out, and wear on the inner joint and rack bar ramps up. Left unchecked, that can lead to steering play, noise over bumps, and in bad cases damage to the steering rack—plus a likely RWC or WOF fail.

Servicing-wise, it pays to inspect the boots at every service interval or 10,000–15,000 kilometres, and anytime the Outlander’s been off-road, on gravel, or through floodwater. On EPS-equipped Outlanders there’s no power steering fluid to leak, but a torn boot can still let moisture sit against the rack. If the rubber is perished, split, or the clamps are missing, replacing the boots promptly prevents bigger bills later.

• Common signs to watch: visible cracking or tears, oily or gritty residue around the boot, loose or missing clamps, and new steering clunks that suggest inner tie rod wear.
• Replacement tips: renew boots in pairs if one has failed, use quality OE-style bellows and proper ear or band clamps, lightly grease the inner joint as specified, ensure the boot isn’t twisted and that any vent path isn’t blocked, and always book a wheel alignment after refitting the tie rod end.

DIY is doable for a confident home mechanic with stands, a tie-rod end separator, and a torque wrench. Mark the tie rod threads before removal to keep toe close, but don’t skip the alignment. If the inner tie rod’s lock washer or jam nut is disturbed, replace as required and torque to spec. Workshops familiar with Mitsubishi models will knock this over quickly and can check the rest of the front-end while they’re there.

Bottom line: on a 2017 Outlander, sound rack-boots are cheap insurance for a precise, quiet steer and long rack life.

Does the 2017 Outlander have rack-boots even with electric power steering?

Yes. The electric assist sits on the steering rack, but the rack-and-pinion still uses bellows boots on both sides to shield the inner tie rods and rack bar from grime and water. Factory manuals and parts catalogues list these boots for 2017 models.

How often should the rack-boots be checked or replaced?

Inspect them at every service (about 10,000–15,000 km) and after rough-road or flood-water use. Replace only when damaged, perished, or if clamps are loose. In typical Aussie and Kiwi conditions, quality boots can last many years, but coastal salt and UV can shorten their life.

Can a home mechanic replace the rack-boots?

Usually, yes. With stands, a tie-rod end separator, and the right clamps, it’s a straightforward job. Mark the tie rod, follow torque specs, and book a wheel alignment straight after. If there’s play in the inner tie rod, replace it at the same time.