Parts for your 2017 Volvo Xc60-Rack boots

2017 Volvo XC60 rack-boots: what they do and when to replace them

Per Volvo VIDA service information (Steering Gear, group 64) and OE parts catalogues for the 2017 XC60 (P3 platform), this model uses rack-and-pinion steering with protective bellows on each side of the rack — commonly called rack-boots. So yes, rack-boots are fitted and relevant for the 2017 Volvo XC60.

On this XC60, rack-boots shield the inner tie rods and the rack’s polished shaft from grit, water, and road grime. They also keep grease where it belongs. If a boot tears, contaminants can chew out inner tie rods and can let moisture attack the rack seals. On hydraulic-assisted versions, fluid found pooling inside a boot is a red flag that a rack seal may be leaking.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to check both boots at each service interval. A quick visual look for cracks, splits, perishing, missing clamps, or grease trails is usually enough. Any damage means the boot should be replaced promptly to avoid accelerated steering wear.

Replacement is a straightforward job for a competent technician but does involve removing the outer tie-rod end, so a wheel alignment is recommended afterwards. Best practice includes:

• Centred steering and careful measurement or marking of tie-rod threads to keep toe close before alignment.
• Using new OE-style clamps rather than cable ties for a proper seal.
• Inspecting inner tie rods for play while the boot is off, replace if there’s any looseness or notchiness.
• Avoiding “split-boot” quick fixes — they rarely last and can let in dust.

Quality matters. OE or equivalent boots in proper rubber or TPE will handle heat, steering lock, and the Aussie/Kiwi climate far better than bargain options. For drivers who frequent unsealed roads or salt air, more frequent inspections make sense. If the steering feels heavier than usual, there’s a clunk on rough surfaces, or the inside of a front tyre shows odd wear, a torn boot or worn inner tie rod could be the culprit. Sorted early, a new rack-boot is a small job that helps protect the far pricier steering rack.

Popular questions about 2017 Volvo XC60 rack-boots

How long do rack-boots typically last on a 2017 XC60?
With normal use, quality rack-boots can last many years and well over 100,000 km. Heat, road debris, and ozone ageing can shorten their life. Regular inspections catch cracks before they become full splits.

Will replacing a rack-boot require a wheel alignment?
Yes. Even when the technician carefully counts threads or marks the tie-rod, removing the outer tie-rod end can shift toe. A post-repair alignment ensures proper steering feel and even tyre wear.

Can a torn rack-boot cause a WOF/reg inspection fail?
Often, yes. A visibly torn or unsecured steering boot is typically a fail item because it exposes safety-critical steering parts to contamination. Replacing the boot and rechecking alignment usually sorts it.