Parts for your 2019 Ford Mondeo-Rack boots

2019 Ford Mondeo rack boots (steering rack gaiters): what they do and when to replace them

Yes, the 2019 Ford Mondeo is fitted with rack boots. Ford’s workshop manual for the CD391 Mondeo (Section 211-02 Steering Linkage) and the Ford EPC/Microcat parts catalogue both show bellows-style steering rack boots (also called gaiters) on each end of the electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) rack. Even though the Mondeo’s steering is electric, the boots are still essential to seal the inner tie rods and keep grit and water off the rack bar.

On this model, rack boots shield the moving bits of the rack-and-pinion from road splash, dust and corrosion. They don’t hold hydraulic fluid (it’s an EPAS unit), but they absolutely protect the inner tie rod joints and the rack surface. If a boot tears, contaminants get in, the inner joint wears quickly, and the rack can corrode. That can lead to play in the steering, uneven tyre wear, or a gritty feel on-centre. In NZ and Australia, a torn steering dust boot can also put a WoF/RWC at risk.

As part of routine servicing, the Mondeo’s rack boots should be visually checked every service or at least every 10,000–15,000 km. Look for:

• Splits, cracks, or perishing
• Loose or missing clamps
• Grease weeping out or water/dirt inside the folds
• Knocks, stiffness, or a sandy feel when turning the wheel

If damage is found, replacement is straightforward for a trained tech: remove the outer tie rod end, slide off the old boot, inspect the inner tie rod and rack surface, then fit a quality one-piece boot with proper clamps (avoid cable ties). It’s good practice to replace boots in pairs and recheck wheel alignment afterwards, as disturbing the tie rod can nudge toe settings.

There’s no fixed replacement interval, many last well past 100,000 km, but harsh roads, UV and road grime can shorten their life. Genuine or reputable OEM-equivalent boots fit best and seal reliably. If water ingress is suspected, the inner tie rod should be checked for free play and corrosion, and the rack grease condition assessed. Keeping those boots intact is cheap insurance against premature steering rack or inner tie rod failure on the 2019 Mondeo.

Popular questions about 2019 Ford Mondeo rack boots

Do all 2019 Mondeos have steering rack boots?
Yes. The 2019 Mondeo uses an EPAS rack that still relies on bellows-style boots on each side. Ford’s workshop documentation and parts listings identify these as steering gear boots/gaiters that protect the inner tie rods and rack bar from debris and moisture.

How often should rack boots be replaced?
There’s no fixed schedule. They should be inspected at each service and replaced at the first sign of cracking, splitting, or loose clamps. In typical Aussie and Kiwi conditions, well-fitted boots can last many years, but gravel roads, heat and UV exposure can age them faster.

Is it safe to drive with a torn rack boot?
Short trips might seem fine, but it’s not a great idea. A torn boot lets in water and grit that can rapidly wear the inner tie rod and corrode the rack. It may also risk a WoF/RWC fail. Booking replacement as soon as practical helps avoid bigger steering repairs later.