Parts for your 2019 Toyota Hiace-Rack boots

2019 Toyota HiAce rack boots — what they do and how to look after them

Rack boots are absolutely relevant on the 2019 Toyota HiAce. Toyota’s Repair Manual for the HiAce/Granvia (H300, 2019–) details rack-and-pinion steering with service procedures for the steering rack boots and clamps, and Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue lists the boot under PNC 45535 (Boot, Steering Rack) for 2019-on models. Aftermarket Australian/NZ catalogues also range HiAce H300 rack boot kits, backing that up.

On a 2019 HiAce, the rack boots (also called steering rack bellows or gaiters) are the flexible rubber sleeves at each end of the steering rack. Their job is simple but vital: keep dust, water, and road grit out of the inner tie rods and rack seals, while retaining the light grease that keeps those parts moving smoothly. Because the HiAce works hard in Aussie and Kiwi conditions—think gravel roads, work sites, and plenty of wet weather—those boots cop a fair bit of abuse.

Servicing-wise, it’s smart to have the rack boots inspected at every regular service. Look for cracks, splits near the folds, perished rubber, or grease/oil seepage. If a boot is torn, grit can quickly chew out the inner tie rod or the rack seal, turning a cheap boot replacement into a costly steering rack job. Replace any damaged boot promptly and consider doing them in pairs so rubber age stays consistent side to side.

When replacing a boot on a 2019 HiAce, use a quality OE-style boot and proper clamps—don’t rely on cable ties. Make sure the inner tie rod ball joint feels smooth with no notchiness before fitting the new boot, and always recheck toe alignment after the job. If your HiAce variant uses assistance that references a steering angle sensor, ask the workshop to perform any required steering angle calibration post-alignment.

Signs your rack boots need attention include a light knock over bumps, vague on-centre feel, or visible splits and grease fling near the inner ends of the tie rods. Road-salt exposure and engine bay heat can accelerate cracking, so fleet and coastal vehicles should be checked more often.

• Inspect at each service or 10,000–15,000 km.
• Replace torn or heavily cracked boots immediately.
• Use correct clamps and avoid twisting the boot during fitment.
• Get a wheel alignment after replacement.

Keeping the rack boots in good nick protects the steering gear, preserves tyre life, and keeps the HiAce steering tight and predictable—just how it should be for daily work.

Popular questions about 2019 Toyota HiAce rack boots

Do rack boots affect a WoF or roadworthy in Aus/NZ?

Yes. Torn or insecure rack boots can lead to a WoF fail in NZ and can cause a defect during roadworthy checks in Australia. They’re considered a safety-related item because splits allow contamination that can rapidly damage steering components. Replacing a worn boot promptly helps avoid a much bigger bill for a rack rebuild.

Can I drive my HiAce with a split rack boot for a while?

Best avoided. Even short drives can let grit and water into the inner tie rod and rack seal, especially in wet weather. If you must move the van, keep it to a minimum and book a replacement ASAP. After the new boot goes on, get the alignment checked to protect tyres and steering feel.

How long do rack boots last on a 2019 HiAce?

There’s no fixed interval—many last years—but heat, UV, gravel roads, and road salt shorten their life. With regular inspections, most owners only replace boots when cracking or splitting shows up. Fleet and coastal vehicles should expect more frequent replacement due to harsher conditions.