Parts for your 2017 Subaru Xv-Rack boots

2017 Subaru XV rack-boots: what they do and when to replace them

Per the Subaru Service Manual (Steering System, 2017 XV/GP series) and Subaru’s FAST electronic parts catalogue, the 2017 Subaru XV uses an electric power–assisted rack-and-pinion steering gear that’s sealed by a flexible bellows on each side—commonly called rack boots. So rack-boots are absolutely fitted to, and relevant for, the 2017 Subaru XV.

On this model, the rack-boots protect the inner tie rods and the steering rack from grit, water, and road splash, while holding the correct amount of grease around the inner joints. Because the XV uses electric (not hydraulic) power steering, you won’t see power-steering fluid leaking from the boots, however, a torn boot still lets in contamination that chews out inner joints and can corrode the rack bar or its seals.

As part of regular servicing, the rack-boots deserve a quick look any time the vehicle’s in the air—ideally at every service interval. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions, especially if the XV sees gravel, beach runs, or snow and road salt, early checking pays off.

• Signs the boots need attention: splits or perishing, loose or missing clamps, grease flicked around the wheel arch, sand or water inside the boot, or uneven steering feel. A clicking on turns is usually CV-related, but a torn rack-boot can still accelerate steering wear.
• Replacement tips: use the correct, model-specific bellows and new clamps, don’t twist the boot during fitment, verify inner tie-rod play before refitting, and book a wheel alignment after any tie-rod work.
• Ignore a torn boot and you risk inner tie-rod wear, notchy steering, corrosion on the rack, and a likely WOF/roadworthy fail.

There’s no set kilometre life for rack-boots, but five to ten years is common if they’re not baked by heat or cut by debris. Many techs inspect them every 10,000–15,000 km. If one side fails, it’s smart to check—or replace—both, as ageing and exposure are usually similar.

Subaru literature may call them steering gear bellows, parts catalogues will list them under steering rack boot/bellows. Whether tackling light trails or daily commuting, keeping those bellows intact helps the XV steer smoothly and keeps bigger, costlier steering repairs at bay.

• Are rack-boots the same as CV boots on a 2017 XV?
  They’re similar bellows but protect different parts. Rack-boots seal the steering rack and inner tie rods, CV boots seal the driveshaft joints. A split in either needs prompt attention, but they’re not interchangeable.
• How often should the rack-boots be checked?
  Have them inspected at each service or at least every 10,000–15,000 km, and sooner if you drive on gravel, sand, or salted roads.
• Can you drive with a torn rack-boot?
  You can, but it’s unwise. Contamination can quickly wear the inner tie rod and mark the rack bar. Replace the boot promptly and get an alignment if any steering components are disturbed.