Parts for your 2020 Isuzu D-max-Rack boots

2020 Isuzu D‑MAX rack boots: what they do, when to replace them, and why they matter

Technical references confirm that the 2020 Isuzu D‑MAX (RG series released in AU/NZ during 2020) uses a rack‑and‑pinion steering gear with protective bellows, commonly called rack boots. The Isuzu workshop manual for the RG D‑MAX (Section: Steering System) depicts a rack assembly with bellows on both sides, and the Isuzu Electronic Parts Catalogue lists “Boot, Steering Gear” for this model. Independent service data (e.g., Autodata/HaynesPro entries for 2020 D‑MAX RG) also specifies rack‑and‑pinion steering, which by design uses rack boots. So, yes—rack boots are absolutely relevant and fitted on the 2020 D‑MAX.

On this ute, the rack boots are the flexible bellows that seal and protect the steering rack bar and inner tie‑rod joints. They keep water, mud, and dust out, and help retain grease where it’s needed. That’s crucial for anyone driving on corrugations, through creek crossings, or in silty coastal conditions common around Australia and New Zealand. A split or perished boot lets grit in and grease out, which can chew through inner tie‑rod joints and rack seals, leading to play in the steering, stiff spots, and ultimately pricey rack damage.

Good servicing practice is to eyeball the rack boots at each service interval—typically every 10,000–15,000 km or six to twelve months—plus after off‑road trips or deep‑water work. Look for cracks, oil or grease weeping, loose clamps, or any rub marks from aftermarket suspension or underbody accessories. If a boot is torn, it should be replaced promptly.

• Replace the damaged boot and its clamps, many techs prefer doing both sides if age‑related cracking is evident.
• Use quality clamp bands rather than cable ties for a proper seal.
• Centre the rack before removing a boot, and keep grit out of the exposed rack bar.
• Inspect the inner tie‑rod and rack seals while you’re there, renew if there’s any play or leakage.
• After boot replacement, book a wheel alignment—any disturbance to the tie‑rod can nudge toe settings.

There’s no fixed replacement age for rack boots, environment and use decide their lifespan. Sun, heat, oil exposure, and off‑road grit are the usual culprits. Staying on top of this small, inexpensive part keeps the D‑MAX steering precise and avoids the headache of a prematurely worn steering rack.

Popular questions about 2020 Isuzu D‑MAX rack boots

Do all 2020 D‑MAX models have rack boots?
In AU/NZ, the 2020 RG‑series D‑MAX runs a rack‑and‑pinion steering gear with bellows boots. If you’ve got an early‑2020 vehicle registered from older stock, check your VIN against the steering section of the workshop data—but for the 2020 RG sold locally, rack boots are fitted.

How often should rack boots be replaced?
There’s no set interval. Inspect them every service and after muddy or water‑logged trips. Replace at the first sign of cracking, splitting, or grease/oil weep, or if a clamp is loose. Acting early prevents inner tie‑rod and rack damage.

Is it safe to drive with a split rack boot?
Not for long. A split boot lets contaminants into the rack and can quickly wear the inner joint and seals. It’s likely to fail a WOF/roadworthy. Get it replaced promptly and have the alignment checked.