Parts for your 2018 Toyota Prius-Rack boots

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

Yes, the 2018 Toyota Prius does use rack-boots. Toyota’s technical literature for the ZVW50-series Prius (including the Repair Manual, New Car Features, and the Electronic Parts Catalogue) shows an electric power steering rack-and-pinion with rubber bellows—commonly called rack-boots—on both ends. Toyota refers to these as steering rack boot sub-assemblies, fitted to protect the inner tie rods and the rack from dust, water and road grit.

On a Prius, even though the power assist is electric (no hydraulic fluid), the steering is still a mechanical rack-and-pinion. The rack-boots seal that mechanism from the elements. If a boot splits or perishes, grit and moisture can get in and chew out the inner tie rod joints and rack bushes in short order, leading to play in the steering, clunks over bumps and uneven tyre wear.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to give the rack-boots a quick look every 10,000–15,000 km. What to watch for:

• Cracks, splits or oiliness from road grime sticking to grease
• Loose or missing boot bands/clamps
• Rust dust or play at the inner tie rod once the wheel is lifted

If a boot is damaged, replace it promptly to avoid a much pricier steering rack. A typical replacement involves removing the outer tie rod end, sliding off the old boot, checking the inner tie rod for play, then fitting a quality EPDM boot with proper band clamps. Avoid cable ties and don’t twist the boot on install. A light smear of the specified grease on the inner tie rod ball is usually all that’s required—don’t pack the bellows full. Because toe can shift when the tie rod end is disturbed, a wheel alignment afterwards is recommended.

For a 2018 Prius in Australian or New Zealand conditions—heat, UV and the odd gravel road—replacing boots in pairs is good practice if one has perished. Choosing genuine Toyota or a reputable aftermarket equivalent keeps the rubber quality up and the steering rack happy. It’s a small part that quietly does a big job, and catching wear early can save a rack replacement and a failed WOF or rego inspection.

Popular questions about 2018 Toyota Prius rack-boots

Does the 2018 Prius have rack-boots?
Yes. The ZVW50-series Prius uses an electric-assist rack-and-pinion with rubber bellows (rack-boots) on both ends to keep dust and water out of the inner tie rods and rack.

What are the signs a rack-boot needs replacing?
Look for cracks, splits, or loose clamps, plus any grit-laden grease around the inner tie rod. Steering play, knocking over bumps, or uneven tyre wear can follow if a torn boot isn’t fixed promptly.

Do I need a wheel alignment after changing rack-boots?
Usually, yes. The outer tie rod end is removed to slide the boot on and off, and even with careful marking, toe can shift. An alignment keeps the Prius tracking straight and tyres wearing evenly.