Parts for your 2019 Subaru Xv-Rack boots

2019 Subaru XV rack-boots: what they do and when to replace them

Yes, the 2019 Subaru XV (GT-series, also known as Crosstrek) is fitted with rack-boots on its electric power steering rack. Technical references that confirm this include Subaru factory service information (STIS) for the 2018–2020 XV/Impreza platform, which details the “Steering Gearbox” assembly and “Boot” components, Subaru scheduled maintenance guides that call for inspecting “steering gear, linkage and boots,” and OEM parts catalogues listing the steering rack boot/bellows for the 2019 XV. NZ and Australian roadworthiness standards also require steering rack gaiters/boots to be intact during WOF/RWC inspections, underscoring that these parts are present and safety-critical.

On the XV, the rack-boots (also called steering rack bellows or gaiters) are flexible sleeves that seal each end of the rack-and-pinion housing where the inner tie rods attach. Their job is to keep grit, water and mud out of the rack, protect the inner tie rod joints, and contain the light lubrication/grease around those joints. Because the XV uses electric power steering, there’s no hydraulic fluid inside these boots—so any oiliness seen around the area is likely migrated engine or CV grease, not “power steering fluid”.

For servicing, it’s smart to have the rack-boots visually checked at every routine service interval (around 10,000–15,000 km in AU/NZ), or sooner if the vehicle sees unsealed roads, beach runs, or frequent water crossings. Signs a boot needs replacement include visible splits or perishing, missing or loose clamps, or grease flung onto nearby components. If a boot is torn, grit can quickly score the rack or wear the inner tie rod—so replacement should be prompt. Boots are typically replaced in pairs if ageing is similar.

• Don’t drive long with a split boot—dirt ingress can damage the rack and lead to costly repairs, and it can fail a WOF/RWC.
• Use the correct one-time ear clamps rather than cable ties, they seal better and meet inspection standards.
• A wheel alignment is recommended after boot replacement if the outer tie rod is disturbed.
• Avoid packing the boot full of grease, use only what the service info specifies for the inner tie rod area.

A workshop following Subaru procedures will remove the tie rod end, slide off the old boot, clean and inspect the inner joint, fit the new boot with proper clamps, and set toe/alignment if required. Done right, quality boots will keep the XV’s steering precise and quiet for years.

Does the 2019 Subaru XV actually have rack-boots?

Yes. Subaru’s factory service manual for the GT-platform XV/Crosstrek shows the steering gear “boot” (bellows) on both sides of the rack, and Subaru’s maintenance schedule lists inspection of steering gear and boots. Genuine and aftermarket catalogues also list XV-specific rack-boot/bellows kits.

How often should the rack-boots be inspected or replaced?

Have them visually checked at each service (about every 10,000–15,000 km), or sooner if the car is used off-road or in coastal conditions. Replace immediately if a boot is split, perished, or the clamps are loose. There’s no fixed time-based replacement—condition is the guide.

Is it safe to drive with a torn rack-boot?

Not ideal. A torn boot lets dust and water in, accelerating wear of the inner tie rod and rack. It can lead to premature play in the steering and may cause a WOF/RWC failure. Short, gentle trips to a workshop are usually fine, but plan a prompt repair and follow up with an alignment if the tie rod was disturbed.