Parts for your 2021 Lexus Is-Rack boots

2021 Lexus IS Rack Boots

Rack boots are absolutely relevant on the 2021 Lexus IS. The Lexus Repair Manual (TIS) for the XE30-series IS (MY21 facelift) details the steering gear assembly with two bellows-type rack boots and clamps, and the Lexus Electronic Parts Catalogue lists a “Boot, Steering Rack” (PNC 45535) applicable to 2021 IS variants with electric power steering. Even with EPS, the rack-and-pinion still needs boots to keep contaminants out and protect the inner tie rods and rack bar.

On a 2021 Lexus IS, the rack boots act like flexible dust and moisture shields. They seal the open ends of the steering rack where the inner tie rods move, keeping out water, grit, and road grime while letting the rack slide freely. They also help retain the light grease on the rack bar and inner joints. Because the IS uses electric power steering, there’s no hydraulic fluid in the boots, they’re there for protection and longevity, not fluid retention.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to have the rack boots checked at every service interval. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions—heat, UV, and wet roads—rubber can harden and crack over time. A torn boot can let water in, which can corrode the rack teeth and make the inner joints gritty. That can lead to notchy steering, premature inner tie rod wear, and the sort of issues that can attract attention at a WOF or roadworthy.

• Look for splits, perishing, or grease flung onto the chassis rails.
• Make sure the small and large clamps are snug and intact.
• If a boot is damaged, replace it promptly to avoid rack damage.

Replacement is straightforward in trained hands: centre the steering, remove the outer tie rod end if needed, slide off the old boot, clean and inspect the rack and inner joint, then fit an OE-spec boot with new single-use clamps. Don’t twist the boot, equalise air pressure per the workshop procedure (some Toyota/Lexus boots have tiny vents). If the inner or outer tie rod is disturbed, a wheel alignment is recommended to protect tyres and ensure straight-ahead tracking. Most workshops allow about 0.5–1.0 hour per side, plus alignment if required.

Choosing quality, model-correct boots is worth it. Genuine or OEM-equivalent boots fit properly, seal well, and handle our climate’s UV and temperature swings better, helping the IS steer quietly and precisely for the long haul.

Popular questions about 2021 Lexus IS rack boots

Does the 2021 Lexus IS actually have rack boots with electric power steering?
Yes. The IS uses an electric rack-and-pinion unit, and it still relies on bellows-style rack boots to shield the rack bar and inner tie rods. Lexus TIS procedures and the Lexus EPC (PNC 45535) confirm boots and clamps are fitted on MY21 IS models.

How often should rack boots be replaced on a 2021 IS?
There’s no fixed kilometre interval. Inspect at every service and replace at the first sign of cracking, splitting, or loose clamps. In typical Aussie/NZ use, many last well past 80,000–150,000 km, but UV, road grit, and pothole strikes can shorten that.

Do I need a wheel alignment after changing rack boots?
If the outer or inner tie rod is removed or the toe adjustment is disturbed, yes—get an alignment to keep the steering straight and protect your tyres. If a technician can swap a boot without altering toe, an alignment may not be strictly necessary, but most workshops recommend one as good practice.