Parts for your 2020 Volvo Xc60-Rack boots

2020 Volvo XC60 Rack Boots: What They Do and When to Replace Them

Yes, the 2020 Volvo XC60 uses rack boots. Volvo’s own technical literature (VIDA/Workshop Information for the SPA-platform XC60) and genuine/OE parts catalogues list steering gear bellows—often called rack boots or rack gaiters—on both ends of the electric rack-and-pinion steering gear. That means they’re absolutely relevant on all 2020 XC60 variants (petrol, diesel, and hybrid) with electric power steering.

Rack boots are the concertina-style rubber bellows that seal the inner ends of the steering rack and the inner tie rods. Their job is to keep grit, water, and road muck out of the steering gear while letting the rack travel freely. They also help retain the light lubrication on the inner tie rod joints. Even though the XC60’s steering is electric (no hydraulic fluid lines to the rack), keeping contaminants out is still critical for smooth, long-lived steering.

As part of regular servicing, it’s wise to give the rack boots a quick visual once-over. Look for splits, perishing, loose clamps, or grease/dirt build-up around the bellows. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions—coastal air, corrugations, and occasional gravel—rubber lives a harder life, so a check every service interval (around 10,000–15,000 km) is sensible.

If a boot is torn, replace it promptly. Driving with a split bellows lets dust and water reach the inner tie rod and rack seals, which can accelerate wear and lead to notchy steering or play. In NZ, a split steering gaiter can be a WOF fail, and in Australia it’ll raise eyebrows at a safety check.

• Typical signs it’s time: visible cracks or tears, missing/loose clamps, crunching or gritty feel when turning, uneven steering feel.
• Good practice: fit quality OE or OEM-grade EPDM bellows, use proper ear or band clamps (not cable ties), and avoid twisting the boot on install.

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech: wheel off, outer tie-rod end off, old bellows off, inspect the inner tie rod for play, then slide on the new boot and clamp it correctly. A wheel alignment is recommended after refitting the tie-rod end. Don’t pack the boot with extra grease and don’t tape over splits—replacement is the right fix.

For peace of mind, any time tyres or suspension are being worked on, asking for a quick rack-boot check on the 2020 XC60 is a smart, low-cost add-on.

Popular questions about 2020 Volvo XC60 rack boots

Do all 2020 Volvo XC60 models have rack boots?
Yes. According to Volvo’s VIDA/Workshop Information and parts listings for the SPA-platform XC60, every 2020 variant with electric rack-and-pinion steering uses protective bellows (rack boots) on both sides of the steering gear.

How often should rack boots be replaced on a 2020 XC60?
There’s no fixed interval—replace on condition. Inspect at each service. In typical Aussie/NZ use, original boots often last many years, but exposure to heat, UV, and gravel can shorten that. If there’s any cracking, tearing, or loose clamps, replace straight away.

Can they keep driving with a split rack boot?
It’ll still steer, but it’s risky. A torn boot lets in grit and water that can wear the inner tie rod and rack, potentially leading to expensive repairs and safety test failures. It’s best to replace the boot promptly and get an alignment checked afterwards.