Parts for your 2023 Subaru Impreza-Rack boots

2023 Subaru Impreza rack boots: what they do and when to replace them

Rack boots are fitted to the 2023 Subaru Impreza. Technical references including the Subaru Service Manual for the GK/GT Impreza (2017–2023) Steering section, and the official Subaru parts catalogue for MY2023, both show a bellows-style “steering gear boot” on each end of the electric power steering rack. Major aftermarket catalogues also list steering rack boots for this model range. That makes rack boots clearly relevant and serviceable on the 2023 Impreza.

On this Impreza’s rack-and-pinion electric power steering, the rack boots (also called bellows) are the flexible rubber sleeves that seal the inner tie rod joints and rack ends from road grit and moisture. They keep the grease in and the nasties out, so the steering stays smooth and quiet and the inner tie rods don’t wear out prematurely. Even though there’s no hydraulic fluid in an EPS rack, compromised boots can still let water and debris into the rack housing and shorten its life.

As part of regular servicing in Australia and New Zealand, it’s smart to inspect the boots at each service or every 10,000–15,000 km, and they’ll also be checked at WOF/roadworthy time. Look for ageing, cracking, or clamps that have loosened off. If a boot is torn, replace it promptly to avoid play in the inner tie rod and potential damage to the rack assembly.

• Signs a rack boot needs replacing:
  • Visible splits, perishing, or oil/grease contamination on the boot
  • Clicking/knocking over bumps or vague on-centre feel
  • Uneven tyre wear from developing steering play
• Tips for replacement and care:
  • Use quality boots and new clamps, avoid sharp metal ties that can cut the rubber
  • If the rack has a breather or equaliser tube between boots, ensure it’s refitted and clear
  • Mark toe settings before removal and book a wheel alignment afterwards
  • Don’t rotate the steering with tie rods disconnected, follow the Subaru torque specs from the service manual

Replacing rack boots isn’t a huge job, but it’s precise. A technician will remove the outer tie rod end, slide off the damaged boot, clean and regrease the inner joint as needed, fit the new boot with the correct clamps, reassemble, and then set the alignment. Staying on top of boot condition helps avoid costly rack or inner tie rod replacements down the track.

FAQs

Does the 2023 Subaru Impreza have steering rack boots?
Yes. The MY2023 Impreza uses an electric rack-and-pinion steering gear with a bellows-style boot on each side to protect the inner tie rods and rack ends. This is documented in the Subaru Service Manual and shown in the Subaru parts catalogue for the model.

How often should rack boots be replaced?
There’s no set interval. They’re replaced on condition. Inspect them at every service, if a boot is cracked, perished, or torn, replace it straight away and follow up with a wheel alignment.

Is it safe to drive with a torn rack boot?
Short-term driving might be possible, but it’s not a good idea. A torn boot lets water and grit in, which can chew out the inner tie rod and potentially the rack. Get it sorted promptly to avoid bigger repair bills.