Parts for your 2020 Subaru Legacy-Rack boots

2020 Subaru Legacy rack-boots: what they do and when to replace them

Rack-boots are absolutely used on the 2020 Subaru Legacy (also known as Liberty in Australia). Technical sources including the Subaru Service Manual (STIS) for the 2020 Legacy (BT platform) list a bellows-type “steering gear boot” on each side of the electric rack-and-pinion, with inner and outer boot bands detailed in the Steering > Steering Gearbox procedures. Subaru’s genuine parts catalogues for the 2020 Legacy likewise show the steering gear boot and clamps within the “Steering Gear & Linkage” assembly diagrams. So yes—this model is fitted with rack-boots from the factory.

On the 2020 Legacy, the rack-boots are simple bellows that seal the ends of the electric steering rack and protect the inner tie-rod joints. Their main jobs are to keep out grit, water and road grime, and to help retain the light lubrication at the inner ball joints. Even though the Legacy uses electric power steering (so there’s no hydraulic fluid in the rack), torn or perished boots can still let moisture in, which risks corrosion on the rack bar and premature wear of the inner tie-rods. Left long enough, that can lead to notchy steering and alignment issues.

As part of routine servicing, a quick visual check of both rack-boots pays off. Look for splits, loose or missing bands, or evidence of dirt ingress. If a boot is damaged, replacement is straightforward for a workshop: separate the outer tie-rod end, remove the old boot and bands, inspect the inner joint for play or corrosion, slide on a new boot, and secure with the correct Subaru-style bands (not cable ties). Because the tie-rod end is disturbed, a wheel alignment should be carried out afterwards. It’s common sense to replace boots in pairs if they’re the same age.

A few handy pointers: the boot isn’t a pressure seal and shouldn’t be packed with grease, just ensure the inner joint has appropriate lubrication per the factory procedure. If oil is seen around the area on this model, it’s unlikely to be power steering fluid—check for engine oil mist or CV grease instead. Given local conditions across Australia and New Zealand—UV, heat, gravel, and the odd water crossing—inspecting the rack-boots at every service interval (or at least every 10–15,000 km) is smart preventative maintenance.

• Typical signs a rack-boot needs attention: visible cracking, splits, dislodged bands, dirt inside the boot, or uneven steering feel.
• Best practice: use OEM-quality boots and proper banding tools, follow Subaru torque specs for tie-rod hardware, finish with a wheel alignment.

Popular questions about 2020 Subaru Legacy rack-boots

Do all 2020 Subaru Legacy models have rack-boots?
Yes. Regardless of trim, the 2020 Legacy’s electric rack-and-pinion uses a bellows-style boot on each side. These boots shield the rack and inner tie-rods from grit and water, which is especially important on cars driven on gravel or through heavy rain.

How long do rack-boots typically last?
They can last many years, but heat, age and road debris eventually take their toll. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions, having them inspected at every service is sensible. Replace at the first sign of cracking or tearing to avoid corrosion or inner tie-rod wear.

Is it safe to drive with a torn rack-boot?
Short, careful trips to a workshop are usually fine, but ongoing driving isn’t recommended. Once the boot is torn, dirt and water can get in and start damaging the rack and inner tie-rod. Prompt replacement and an alignment will save much bigger bills later.