Parts for your 2018 Subaru Forester-Rack boots

2018 Subaru Forester Rack-Boots: What They Do and When to Replace Them

Technical sources confirm the 2018 Subaru Forester is fitted with steering rack-boots (also called rack gaiters or bellows). The Subaru Factory Service Manual for the 2018 Forester (SJ) includes procedures in the Steering section for “Boot – Steering Gear” inspection and replacement, and Subaru’s FAST electronic parts catalogue lists a dedicated steering gear boot for this model. General repair references (e.g., Haynes/Autodata) also cover rack-boot inspection on Forester SJ vehicles with electric power steering. So rack-boots are absolutely relevant on this car.

On the 2018 Forester, the rack-boot is the concertina rubber sleeve that seals each end of the steering rack where the inner tie rod lives. Its job is to keep dust, water, road grit, and mud out of the rack mechanism, while retaining grease around the inner tie-rod ball and keeping the rack’s internal seals happy. Even though the SJ Forester uses electric power steering, those boots are just as critical as on a hydraulic setup.

As part of regular servicing, a quick eyes-on check goes a long way. Any splits, perishing, loose clamps, or wetness from grease or fluid need attention. After beach runs, gravel roads, or floodwater crossings, it’s worth a second look—sand and silt chew boots fast.

• Common signs a rack-boot needs replacing:
  • Visible cracks or a tear in the bellows
  • Grease flung on the lower control arm or subframe
  • Moisture or rust on the inner tie rod once the boot is moved
  • Dirt or grit inside the boot during inspection

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech: the tie-rod locknut is freed, the outer tie rod is counted off, the old clamps and boot are removed, the inner joint is checked and re-greased (using the correct, rubber-safe grease), and a new boot and clamps are fitted without twisting the bellows. Proper stainless or OE-style clamps should be used—cable ties are a no-go. Because the tie rod is disturbed, a wheel alignment is recommended to nail the toe setting and keep tyres wearing evenly.

Service tip: include rack-boots in every service inspection interval, and be proactive—once a boot splits, grit can damage the inner tie rod and rack seals, turning a cheap boot into a costly steering rack repair.

How often should rack-boots be replaced on a 2018 Forester?

There’s no fixed kilometre interval, they’re replaced on condition. At each service, a visual check is smart. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions—heat, UV, gravel—rubber can age quicker, so catching small cracks early prevents inner tie-rod and rack wear.

Will a split rack-boot fail a WOF/RWC in NZ or AU?

Yes, a torn or unsecured steering rack-boot can trigger a WOF/RWC fail. It’s considered a steering defect because contamination can affect steering safety and component life. Replacing the boot and rechecking alignment usually sorts it.

Do rack-boots need a wheel alignment afterward?

It’s best practice. Even when the tie-rod turns are counted, tiny variances can move toe out of spec. A quick alignment protects tyres and keeps the Forester tracking straight.