Parts for your 2017 Subaru Outback-Rack boots

Understanding Rack Boots on the 2017 Subaru Outback

When it comes to steering components on the 2017 Subaru Outback, one might wonder about the presence and role of rack boots in the system. Rack boots, also known as steering rack gaiters or bellows, are typically rubber or flexible protective covers that shield the inner tie rods and the steering rack from dirt, dust, moisture, and other contaminants. But are rack boots relevant or even used on the 2017 Subaru Outback? Technical references, including Subaru's official service manuals and technical schematics, clarify that the 2017 Outback's steering rack doesn't utilise traditional rack boots in the way many other vehicles do.

The 2017 Subaru Outback employs a rack and pinion steering system with electric power assist (EPS). Although this system does contain components that need protection from environmental factors, rather than separate, external rack boots, the rack is housed within a sealed assembly that provides its own barrier against contaminants. The electric power steering rack on the Outback is enclosed in a metal casing that offers a high level of protection from dirt and debris. The inner tie rods are compact and do not have the exposed sliding surfaces that necessitate the use of rubber gaiters typical in older or more conventional steering racks.

Because the rack assembly is integrated and sealed, there is no requirement for flexible rack boots to prevent contamination. This design choice helps improve durability and reliability by reducing the number of components that require regular inspection and replacement. It also minimises the risk of water ingress and damage caused by physical wear or tearing of rubber gaiters, which can be a common issue leading to steering rack failure in other vehicles.

In essence, for the 2017 Subaru Outback, rack boots are simply not fitted because the steering rack assembly is designed to be a sealed unit. The steering system's protection is built-in, making separate rack boots unnecessary. This is especially important in the Australian context, where steering components face tough environmental conditions including dirt, dust and moisture, so a sealed system provides better long-term reliability without the need for adding extra components such as rack boots.

When servicing the steering system on a 2017 Subaru Outback, attention naturally falls on other maintenance tasks like checking power steering fluid levels (where applicable), inspecting tie rod ends, and listening for unusual noises indicating wear or damage. Even though rack boots are absent, it's still important to routinely check the overall health of the steering rack assembly and related components during routine servicing. If signs of grease leakage, unusual steering effort, or knocking noises are detected, it indicates an issue that needs addressing - but this wouldn't be due to damaged rack boots. Instead, it might signal problems with internal seals or wear within the rack itself.

For owners who are more accustomed to vehicles equipped with traditional rack boots, it's crucial to understand this difference in design. Trying to replace or service something that isn't there, like rack boots, can be confusing. Instead, focus should be on regular inspections of the sealed rack assembly and the outer tie rods, which are visible and serviceable. Outer tie rod ends do have protective rubber boots that keep their joints lubricated and free from debris. These boots should still be checked for tears or cracks during servicing, as their condition affects steering precision and safety.

While rack boots themselves are not a maintenance item on the 2017 Subaru Outback, routine care of the steering system remains vital. Checking steering play, ensuring there are no signs of wear on the tie rods, and monitoring for unusual steering behaviour helps maintain the vehicle's renowned handling and safety standards. If the steering does feel loose or you notice vibrations, it's best to have the system professionally inspected by a Subaru specialist who understands the specific components of the Outback's EPS rack.

In short, Subaru's design decision to use a sealed electric power steering rack in the 2017 Outback removes the need for traditional rack boots, which provides owners with one less part to worry about during servicing. Instead, the focus is on overall steering performance and keeping related components, such as the outer tie rod boots, in good order. This approach fits with the Outback's reputation as a robust and reliable all-rounder, equipped to handle a variety of driving conditions without fuss over minor rubber gaiters that could fail.