Parts for your 2017 Toyota Hilux-Rack boots

2017 Toyota HiLux rack boots: purpose, care and replacement

Based on technical sources, rack boots are fitted to the 2017 Toyota HiLux. Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue lists a Boot, Steering Rack (commonly referenced as 45535-0K010 and supersessions) for the AN120/AN130 HiLux range (2015–2020). The Toyota Repair Manual steering section details inspection/replacement of the rack boots, and major AU/NZ parts catalogues list specific rack gaiters for this model. That means rack boots are absolutely relevant to a 2017 HiLux.

On this HiLux, the rack boots (also called steering rack gaiters) are the concertina-style rubber bellows at each end of the rack-and-pinion. Their job is simple but vital: keep grit, water, and mud away from the inner tie-rod joints and rack seals, and hold the correct grease around the inner joints. On utes that see beach runs, building sites, paddocks or long Outback and back-country kilometres, those boots cop plenty of spray and stone flick, so keeping them in good nick protects the steering gear and helps avoid premature rack or inner tie-rod wear.

Servicing advice for a 2017 HiLux is straightforward: inspect the rack boots at every service or tyre rotation. Look for splits, perished rubber, missing clamps, or grease flung onto the crossmember. If a boot is torn, replacement is the go—continuing to drive can let grit into the rack, risking noisy inner joints, stiff steering, and costly rack repairs. In many states and NZ, a split rack boot can lead to a roadworthy/WOF fail.

• When replacing, use quality OE or equivalent boots and new clamps.
• Boot swap can usually be done without removing the rack: remove the tie-rod end, slide off the old boot, clean, regrease the inner joint as specified, fit the new boot, then refit and torque per the factory manual.
• Mark toe or count turns on the tie-rod end, but still book a wheel alignment afterwards.
• Avoid generic cable ties—use proper ear or spring clamps to maintain seal and movement.

There’s no fixed time or kilometre interval for replacement—condition-based is best. For HiLuxes working in sand, snow, or mud, add extra inspections between services. Fresh, intact rack boots are cheap insurance for the steering system and help the HiLux steer true and protect its tyres.

How often should rack boots be replaced on a 2017 HiLux?

There’s no set interval. Inspect at every service and after heavy off-road or beach use. Replace immediately if cracked, perished, loose at the clamp, or torn, or if grease is visible on nearby components.

What are the signs a rack boot is failing on a 2017 HiLux?

Visible splits, oil or grease around the boot, missing or loose clamps, dirt inside the bellows, uneven tyre wear, or a knock from the inner tie-rod area. A badly torn boot can accelerate inner joint and rack seal wear.

Can the rack boots be replaced without removing the steering rack?

Yes, typically. The tie-rod end is removed, the old boot slides off, and the new boot and clamps go on. An alignment is recommended afterwards to ensure the HiLux tracks straight and tyre wear stays even.