Parts for your 2017 Toyota Avensis-Rack boots

2017 Toyota Avensis rack-boots: what they are, why they matter, and when to replace them

Based on the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) for the T27 Avensis (2015–2018) and the Toyota Repair Manual sections covering Steering Gear and Linkage, the 2017 Toyota Avensis uses a rack-and-pinion steering assembly fitted with bellows-style “boot, steering rack” (often called rack-boots or rack gaiters) on both sides. Technical data providers such as Autodata and HaynesPro also catalogue replacement rack-boots for the 2017 Avensis, confirming the part is relevant and fitted to this model.

On the 2017 Avensis, the rack-boots do the unglamorous but critical job of sealing each end of the steering rack. They keep grit, water and road grime away from the inner tie rods and the polished rack bar, and they retain the light grease that keeps the inner joints smooth. Whether the vehicle is equipped with electric power steering (common on this model) or a hydraulic system on specific variants, the purpose of the boots is the same: protect the moving parts so steering stays accurate and quiet for the long haul.

Split or perished rack-boots can let in moisture and abrasive dirt. Left unchecked, that contamination chews out inner tie rod sockets and can cause corrosion on the rack bar, leading to vague steering, clunks over bumps, and uneven tyre wear. On hydraulically assisted systems (less common on this year Avensis), a torn boot may also allow fluid to escape from a leaking inner seal, but for electric systems there’s no fluid to leak—still, the mechanical wear risk remains.

As a smart bit of preventive maintenance, rack-boots should be inspected at every service or around each 10,000–15,000 km interval. A quick look under the front end for splits, loose clamps, or grease weeping is usually enough. If there’s any doubt, replace promptly—boots are inexpensive compared with a steering rack or inner tie rod.

When replacing, it pays to use quality boots with proper clamping bands (not cable ties). If the inner tie rod needs to come off, follow the workshop manual procedure and use the specified torque when refitting. Don’t overpack the boot with grease, just renew what the manual calls for so the bellows can flex freely. Once the boots and clamps are seated correctly, a wheel alignment is recommended—any disturbance to the tie rods, even slight, can nudge the toe out of spec.

Signs that the Avensis may need new rack-boots include visible cracks in the bellows, damp or greasy patches around the ends of the rack, a light knock on rough roads, or a WOF/roadworthy failure note for “steering rack gaiter split.” Catching the issue early keeps the steering sharp and avoids bigger bills down the track.

• Inspect every service, replace at first sign of cracking or grease weep.
• Fit quality boots and new clamps, avoid twisting the bellows during install.
• Recheck toe and get an alignment after any tie rod or boot work.

Popular questions

Does the 2017 Toyota Avensis use power steering fluid?
Most 2017 Avensis models use electric power steering, so there’s no hydraulic power steering fluid to check or change. That said, the car still has a rack-and-pinion with rack-boots to protect the inner tie rods. If unsure which system is fitted, a quick look for a power steering reservoir under the bonnet will settle it—no reservoir generally means it’s electric.

Will replacing rack-boots require a wheel alignment?
If the inner or outer tie rods are disturbed during boot replacement, a wheel alignment is recommended. Even a small change in tie rod position can alter toe and affect tyre wear. If a boot can be slipped on without moving the tie rod positions, alignment may not shift, but it’s smart to check.

Can a torn rack-boot fail a WOF/roadworthy?
Yes. In both New Zealand and Australia, a split or insecure steering rack gaiter is typically a fail item because it allows contamination of critical steering components. Replacing the boot promptly restores the seal and keeps the steering gear protected.