Parts for your 2017 Toyota Camry-Rack boots

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

Rack boots are fitted to the 2017 Toyota Camry. The model uses a rack-and-pinion steering gear with electric power assist (EPS), and each end of the steering rack is protected by a flexible bellows-style boot. This is confirmed by Toyota’s Repair Manual (TIS) for the XV50-series Camry (covering 2015–2017), which details inspection and replacement of the “steering rack boot” and associated clamps in the Steering Gear section, and by Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue, which lists a “Boot, Steering Rack” applicable to 2017 Camry variants sold in Australia and New Zealand. These technical sources make it clear the component is relevant and serviceable on this vehicle.

On a 2017 Camry, the rack boots keep grit, water, and road splash off the inner tie-rod joints and the rack bar. They also help retain grease around those joints. Because the car runs EPS, there’s no hydraulic fluid in the rack boots, their job is purely protection and sealing. When a boot splits or a clamp loosens, muck can work its way in, accelerating wear in the inner tie rod and even causing corrosion on the rack teeth. Left too long, drivers may notice play in the steering, knocking over bumps, or a notchy feel on turn-in. Tyre wear can follow if joint wear introduces toe changes.

Servicing-wise, it’s smart to have the rack boots inspected at every routine service or tyre rotation. Look for splits, perishing, oil/grease sling on the boot or subframe, loose or missing clamps, or trapped air causing a ballooned look. If damage is found, replace the boot as a pair of boots or at least the affected side, and always use new OEM-style clamps rather than cable ties.

• Choose quality boots sized correctly for the Camry’s rack diameter and stroke.
• Keep the boot untwisted and seated in its grooves so it can expand and contract as the rack moves.
• Re-grease the inner tie-rod ball if specified by the service manual, don’t overpack.
• After refitting, check steering from lock to lock for any snagging.
• A wheel alignment check is recommended if the tie rod length was disturbed during the job.

In Aussie and Kiwi conditions—with plenty of rain, roadworks, and coastal salt—healthy rack boots are cheap insurance. Catching a split early can save the inner tie rods and the steering rack from costly wear, keeping the Camry tracking straight and feeling tight for years.

Popular questions about 2017 Toyota Camry rack boots

Do all 2017 Camry models have rack boots?
Yes. Whether it’s a four-cylinder or hybrid XV50-series Camry, the rack-and-pinion EPS setup uses a protective boot on each side of the steering rack. They’re a routine inspection item in Toyota’s service information.

How often should the rack boots be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval. They’re replaced on condition—when cracked, perished, torn, or if clamps are loose. Having them checked at each service or around every 10,000–15,000 km is a good habit.

Can rack boots be changed without doing a wheel alignment?
Sometimes, yes—if the outer tie rod is not removed or the inner/outer tie-rod lengths aren’t altered. In practice, many workshops will still recommend an alignment check afterwards to be safe, especially if the tie rod was cracked loose.