Parts for your 2017 Toyota Wish-Rack boots

2017 Toyota Wish rack-boots

Yes, the 2017 Toyota Wish uses rack-boots (also called steering rack bellows). This is confirmed by Toyota’s Technical Information System (TIS) repair manual for the ZGE2# series Wish (2009–2017), Steering section, which shows inspection and replacement of the steering gear boots on its electric power steering (EPS) rack-and-pinion. The Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (Global EPC) for ZGE20G/ZGE25G likewise lists a “Boot, Steering Rack” with clamps as a serviceable item. These technical sources make it clear the part is fitted and relevant on the 2017 model.

On the 2017 Toyota Wish, the rack-boots sit at each end of the rack-and-pinion steering gear, sealing the inner tie rod joints and the smooth rack bar from road grime, water, and grit. Even though the Wish runs EPS (so there’s no hydraulic fluid), protecting the rack from contamination is crucial for smooth steering feel and long component life. If a boot tears, water and dust can chew out the inner tie rod sockets and corrode the rack surface, leading to clunks, stiffness, or a pricey rack replacement.

Practical servicing advice for owners in Australia and New Zealand is straightforward: have the rack-boots inspected at every service. There’s no set replacement interval—swap them out if they’re torn, perished, swollen, or the clamps are rusty or loose. It’s a quick, affordable job that can save heaps by preventing premature rack or inner tie rod wear. Because the rack is EPS, any “oil” seen inside a damaged boot is usually grease from the inner tie rod joint or contamination, not power steering fluid. After boot replacement, it’s smart to get a wheel alignment checked, as the tie rod ends are disturbed during the job.

Quality matters. Choose OE or reputable aftermarket boots that fit snugly on the rack housing and tie rod, with stainless or OE-style clamps. When installing, don’t trap excess air—over-inflated boots can balloon and stress the clamps. Use the correct lubricant for the inner tie rod joint if specified, and torque the lock nuts to factory spec. Workshops should also look for underlying causes: stone strikes, previous clamp damage, or a split from old age and heat. Catching a split boot early keeps the Wish steering light, quiet, and WOF/rego-friendly.

• Common signs a rack-boot needs attention:
  • Visible splits, perishing, or missing clamps
  • Clicking or knock over bumps from inner tie rod wear
  • Rust staining or grit inside the boot area
• Service tip: Inspect every service, replace on first sign of damage, check alignment after.

FAQs

Does the 2017 Toyota Wish actually have rack-boots?

Yes. The Toyota TIS repair manual for the ZGE2# Wish and the Toyota Global EPC both list and illustrate the steering gear boots on the EPS rack. They’re standard protective bellows on each end of the rack.

How often should rack-boots be replaced on a 2017 Wish?

There’s no fixed kilometre interval. Inspect them at each service and replace immediately if cracked, torn, swollen, or if clamps are corroded. Early replacement prevents inner tie rod and rack damage.

Can a torn rack-boot fail a WOF or rego inspection?

It can. A split boot allows contamination of a safety-critical steering component. Many inspectors will ping it, and you’ll need to replace the boot and verify there’s no further steering wear before passing.