Parts for your 2018 Toyota Prius-Rack boots

2018 Toyota Prius rack boots: what they do and when to replace them

Based on Toyota’s technical documentation for the ZVW50-series Prius (2016–2018) and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue, the 2018 Toyota Prius uses a rack-and-pinion steering gear with bellows-style rack boots fitted on both sides of the steering rack. The Toyota Repair Manual (TIS) “Steering Linkage and Gear” section lists the boot (steering rack/bellows) as a service component, and the EPC shows left and right boots and clamps as replaceable parts. So, rack boots are absolutely relevant to this model.

On this Prius, the rack boots (also called bellows or gaiters) seal and shield the inner tie rods and rack ends from road grit, water and dust. They help retain the correct grease where it’s needed, prevent corrosion on precision rack components, and keep contaminants away from the electric power steering (EPS) rack’s seals. When a boot tears, grease can fling out and water can make its way in, accelerating wear, causing play in the linkage, and eventually knocking, vague steering, or uneven tyre wear.

For routine servicing in Australia and New Zealand conditions, a quick visual check of the rack boots at each service interval (around every 10,000–15,000 km or 6–12 months, per workshop practice) is smart. Look for splits, perishing, loose or missing clamps, and any wet, greasy sling on nearby components that hints at a crack hidden in the folds.

• Common signs it’s time to replace: visible tears, oil/grease contamination, sand or water inside the boot, or free play/noise when steering.
• Good workshop practice: replace boots in pairs if one has failed, fit new proper clamps (not cable ties), and book a wheel alignment after refitting.

When replacing, avoid twisting the bellows as the tie rod is adjusted, that can preload the boot and shorten its life. Don’t overpack with grease—use the amount and spec indicated in the Toyota procedure. Ensure the breather path between the two sides of the rack is unobstructed so the bellows can compress and expand freely. On EPS-equipped racks like the Prius, care is taken not to hammer on the inner tie rods, use the correct service tools to protect the rack and its seals.

Owners who regularly tackle gravel roads, coastal environments, or deeper puddles should ask their workshop to pay extra attention to the boots during WOF/regos and scheduled services. A healthy set of rack boots is cheap insurance for long steering rack life and crisp, predictable steering feel.

• How often should rack boots be checked on a 2018 Prius?

  They’re best inspected at every regular service (about 10,000–15,000 km or 6–12 months). If the Prius sees gravel, coastal air, or floodwater, ask for extra checks between services.

• Can a torn rack boot be taped as a temporary fix?

  Not recommended. Tape won’t keep water and grit out for long. Once torn, schedule a proper replacement and a wheel alignment to protect the rack and tyres.

• Are all Prius rack boots the same across trims and safety packs?

  Boots are broadly similar, but racks can vary across years and markets. Always match parts to the VIN using the Toyota EPC to ensure the correct boots and clamps.