Parts for your 2018 Toyota Vitz|yaris-Rack boots

2018 Toyota Vitz/Yaris rack-boots — are they used and why they matter

Yes, rack-boots are fitted to the 2018 Toyota Vitz/Yaris. Technical sources confirm this: the Toyota Repair Manual (TIS) Steering Gear section for the NSP130/NSP135 and related Yaris/Vitz variants shows an electric power steering rack-and-pinion with a protective boot (bellows) on each side, the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) lists “Boot, Steering Gear” for these models, and Toyota’s New Car Features documentation notes an EPS rack that still uses mechanical inner tie-rods protected by boots. These references make rack-boots directly relevant to the 2018 Vitz/Yaris.

On this model, the rack-boots (often called steering rack bellows) keep grit, water and road gunk away from the rack-and-pinion and inner tie-rod joints, while helping retain grease. Even though the car runs electric power steering (no hydraulic hoses at the rack), it still has a mechanical rack that needs those boots to survive Aussie and Kiwi roads.

For servicing, it’s smart to have the rack-boots inspected at every service or at least every 20,000 km. Look for splits, perished rubber, loose/damaged clamps, or any grease flung onto the subframe. If a boot is torn, dirt can chew out the inner tie-rod and the rack itself, leading to play in the steering, clunks on bumps, and expensive repairs. In NZ, split rack boots will typically fail a WOF, in Australia, they can knock back a roadworthy (RWC).

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech: remove the tie-rod end, slide off the old boot and clamps, clean and re-grease as specified, then fit a new boot with the correct ear-type clamps. Avoid generic cable ties unless they’re rated for steering boots. The boot shouldn’t be twisted, ensure any vent path is clear so the bellows can expand/contract freely. It’s a good time to check inner tie-rod and outer tie-rod end play. After refitting, a wheel alignment is recommended because toe can shift when the tie-rod end is disturbed.

Quality matters. Use OEM-equivalent EPDM boots that tolerate heat, ozone and road grime, keep petroleum-based sprays away from the rubber and use silicone-friendly products instead. If one side is cracked or brittle, consider doing both sides to save a second alignment later. Keeping the rack-boots healthy is cheap insurance for precise steering feel and long rack life on a 2018 Toyota Vitz/Yaris.

• Key signs they need attention: splits, grease sling, clunks/knocks, vague steering, WOF/RWC fail notices.
• Service tip: inspect every service, replace boot and clamps as a set, get an alignment after work.

Popular questions about 2018 Toyota Vitz/Yaris rack-boots

Do the 2018 Vitz/Yaris rack-boots hold power steering fluid?
No. On this model the boots protect the mechanical rack and inner tie-rods and help retain grease. The power assist is electric, so there’s no hydraulic fluid inside the boots. Any fluid seen around a boot is likely grease or contamination, not power steering fluid.

How often should rack-boots be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval, they’re replaced on condition. Inspect at every service and replace at the first sign of cracking, splits, loose clamps or contamination. Many last years in normal use, but harsh UV, gravel roads and kerb hits can shorten their life.

Will split rack-boots cause a WOF or RWC failure?
Commonly, yes. In New Zealand, split or insecure steering rack boots are a typical WOF fail item. In Australia, similar roadworthy standards apply. Fixing the boot promptly can prevent further steering damage and get the vehicle compliant again.