Parts for your 2019 Subaru Legacy-Rack boots

2019 Subaru Legacy rack-boots: what they are, why they matter, and when to replace them

Based on technical documentation, rack-boots are fitted to the 2019 Subaru Legacy. Subaru’s 2019 Legacy/Outback (BN/BS) Service Manual (Steering section – EPS type steering gearbox, “Gearbox and Tie-rod” diagrams) and the Subaru electronic parts catalogue (Group 34: Steering Gear & Linkage, listings for “Boot – steering gear”) both show bellows-style boots on either end of the rack to protect the inner tie rods and rack housing. These sources confirm the presence and function of rack-boots on this model.

On a 2019 Subaru Legacy, the steering is electric power assisted (EPS), but it still uses a rack-and-pinion with inner tie rods. The rack-boots (also called steering rack bellows) are the flexible rubber sleeves that keep grit, water, and road grime away from the moving bits. They also help retain grease around the inner tie rod joints and the rack bar ends. Even without hydraulic power steering fluid in the system, split or loose boots can let in moisture and contaminants that chew out the rack or inner tie rods well before their time.

For day-to-day servicing, it’s worth giving the rack-boots a quick look whenever the car’s up on a hoist or the front tyres are off. A healthy boot looks supple, evenly clamped, and free of oil or tearing. If a boot is cracked, perished, or the clamp’s gone walkabout, it’s time to replace it. Don’t ignore a minor split—water and dust will find their way in fast, especially with New Zealand and Australian conditions tossing up everything from beach sand to red dirt.

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech: the outer tie rod end is separated, the old boot slides off, new clamps and a fresh boot go on, and any balance tube between boots (if fitted) is reattached. Because the tie rod is disturbed, a wheel alignment should follow to keep the steering tracking sweet and the tyres wearing evenly. There’s no hydraulic fluid to top up on this EPS car, but the inner joint grease and boot seating matter a lot—avoid twisting the boot and use the correct clamps so it seals properly.

How often should an owner worry about it? Have the boots inspected at each service or at least every 10,000–15,000 kilometres. After flood driving, off-road detours, or kerb strikes, add an extra visual check. Catching a failing boot early is far cheaper than replacing a rack or a pair of inner tie rods.

• Signs a rack-boot needs attention: visible cracks, grease fling on the control arm, missing/loose clamps, or a rubbing/clicking noise when steering.
• Post-replacement tip: request an alignment printout and ask the shop to confirm any rack breather/balance tube is correctly refitted.

Popular questions

Do 2019 Subaru Legacy models actually have rack-boots?
Yes. Subaru’s 2019 Legacy Service Manual (BN/BS) steering diagrams and the Subaru EPC list bellows boots on both sides of the rack. They protect the inner tie rods and rack from dust and water, even though the system uses electric power steering.

How long do rack-boots last on a 2019 Legacy?
There’s no fixed expiry, but with typical urban/highway use they often last many years. Heat, UV, and rough roads can accelerate cracking. Have them inspected each service, replace at the first sign of perishing, splits, or loose clamps.

Can a torn rack-boot fail a WOF or roadworthy inspection?
It can. A torn boot is a common defect because it exposes steering components to contamination. Most inspectors will call it out, and it should be fixed promptly to avoid bigger steering repairs and to maintain safe operation.