Parts for your 2017 Toyota Avensis-Rack boots

2017 Toyota Avensis rack boots: what they do and when to replace them

Technical references confirm the 2017 Toyota Avensis is fitted with rack boots (also called steering rack gaiters or bellows). Toyota’s Avensis T27 workshop material for the steering system and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue list a “Boot, Steering Rack” for the 2015–2018 Avensis range, and major aftermarket catalogues also supply bellows kits for this model. So rack boots are absolutely relevant to this vehicle.

On a 2017 Avensis, the rack boots seal and protect each end of the rack-and-pinion assembly and the inner tie rods. They keep road grime, water, and grit out of the rack while allowing the steering to move freely. Even though the Avensis uses electric power steering, it still relies on a conventional rack that needs clean, protected movement—hence the boots. When they split or perish, contaminants can chew out the inner tie rods and rack bar, leading to play in the steering, noisy operation, and costly repairs. A torn boot can also attract a WOF fail in NZ or a defect at roadworthy checks in Australia.

Good servicing practice is to inspect both rack boots at every service or at least annually—think of it like checking tyres and wiper blades. If cracks, oil/grease seepage, or missing clamps are seen, replace the boots promptly. When replacing, fit quality OE-style bellows with proper band clamps rather than flimsy ties. If only the boot is changed and the inner/outer tie rod lengths are not disturbed, toe can remain unchanged, however, a post-job alignment check is still smart insurance for tyre life.

Because this Avensis uses electric (not hydraulic) assist, fluid leaks won’t present at the boots. Instead, look for split rubber, dirt packed inside the bellows, or grease flung near the subframe. Any of those are cues to schedule the job. A competent workshop will lift the car safely, separate the outer tie rod end (or slide the boot without altering length where possible), clean the rack area, lightly re-grease the inner joint as specified, and secure new boots with correct clamps. They’ll also torque fasteners to spec from the Toyota manual and road test for straight-line tracking.

• Check at every service or at least yearly (10,000–15,000 km).
• Replace immediately if split, perished, swollen, or clamps are loose.
• Request an alignment check after the job to protect tyres.

Look after the rack boots and the Avensis will keep its precise, easy steering for the long haul.

FAQ

Does the 2017 Toyota Avensis have rack boots?

Yes. The 2017 Avensis (T27) uses a rack-and-pinion with bellows-type rack boots on both ends. Toyota service literature and the parts catalogue list the “Boot, Steering Rack” for this model, and they’re commonly supplied as gaiter kits.

How often should rack boots be checked or replaced on a 2017 Avensis?

Have them inspected at every service or at least annually. Replace straight away if there’s a split, cracking, missing clamp, or dirt/grease inside the boot. There’s no fixed kilometre interval—condition is the guide.

Do you need a wheel alignment after changing rack boots?

If the inner or outer tie rod lengths are disturbed, an alignment is required. If the boot is swapped without altering tie rod adjustment, the geometry should remain, but a quick alignment check is still recommended to protect tyre wear.