Parts for your 2017 Subaru Exiga-Rack boots

Understanding Rack Boots on the 2017 Subaru Exiga: Purpose, Maintenance, and Replacement

The 2017 Subaru Exiga, a unique model designed primarily for comfort and practicality, features a conventional rack and pinion steering system. As with many vehicles using this type of steering, rack boots play an essential role in protecting the steering rack from dirt, debris, and moisture. Rack boots, also commonly called bellows or gaiters, are rubberised covers fitted to each end of the steering rack. They shield the inner tie rods and the rack's moving components, preserving their integrity and extending the lifespan of the steering mechanism.

For owners of the 2017 Subaru Exiga, understanding the function of rack boots and the importance of their upkeep is crucial, especially as the vehicle ages. These components might seem minor, yet they perform a key role in maintaining smooth steering and preventing costly repairs down the track.

The purpose of rack boots is straightforward. They keep contaminants like dust, water, and road grime away from the steering rack's internals. Without them, these foreign particles could cause premature wear or corrosion, leading to steering play or even failure. Just like a car's air filter safeguards the engine from harmful particles, rack boots protect the steering system's working parts. They're designed to be flexible to accommodate the rack's movements as the wheels turn.

Another reason rack boots are so important, particularly in a vehicle like the Subaru Exiga that might see daily use in various Australian driving conditions, is that they prevent lubricants inside the rack from leaking out. Steering racks depend on grease and oil to function smoothly, and losing these lubricants can increase friction, wear, and noise.

Maintenance of rack boots on the 2017 Subaru Exiga mostly involves routine inspections during servicing intervals. Typically, a mechanic will check the boots for cracks, tears, or signs of wear. Because rack boots are made from rubber, they are susceptible to deterioration caused by prolonged exposure to heat, sunlight, and road chemicals like salt or oils. It's wise for Exiga owners to have these components looked over at least once a year, especially if the vehicle is used in rough or dusty conditions, or stored outdoors.

If a rack boot is found to be damaged or brittle, it's best to replace it as soon as possible. Continuing to drive with a compromised boot can lead to dirt ingress and loss of lubrication, which will inevitably cause damage to the steering rack. This can result not only in expensive repairs but also unsafe driving conditions, such as less responsive steering or unusual noises.

Replacing rack boots on the Subaru Exiga is a job usually best left to professionals, given that it requires removing components of the steering rack assembly, detaching the inner tie rods, and refitting the new boots correctly. The replacement process often includes cleaning and inspecting the rest of the steering rack components for wear and lubricating the rack before installation. This ensures optimal performance once the new boots are fitted.

Exiga owners have the option of aftermarket or genuine Subaru parts when replacing rack boots. Genuine parts are generally preferred as they match the original specifications exactly and offer confidence in quality and durability. However, reputable aftermarket options can also provide excellent value without sacrificing function.

Steering rack boots might not be the most glamorous aspect of the Subaru Exiga, but they play a quiet, critical role in keeping the vehicle safe and enjoyable to drive. Proactive maintenance and timely replacement can help avoid more serious steering issues, keeping the Exiga's steering precise and smooth for years to come.