Parts for your 2024 Toyota Camry-Rack boots

2024 Toyota Camry rack boots: purpose and service advice

Technical references — specifically the Toyota Camry (AX70, 2018–2024) Repair Manual section “Steering: Steering Gear” and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) exploded diagrams — show the 2024 Toyota Camry uses an electric power steering rack with bellows-style rack boots on both sides. So yes, rack boots are fitted and very relevant to this model.

On the 2024 Camry, the rack boots (also called bellows or gaiters) are flexible covers that seal the ends of the steering rack and protect the inner tie rods. Their job is simple but critical: keep grit, water, and road splash out, and keep the rack grease in. Even though this Camry’s steering is electric (no hydraulic fluid lines), a torn boot still invites contamination that can chew out the inner tie rod joints and the rack’s seals, leading to play in the steering and pricey repairs.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the rack boots every time the vehicle’s up on a hoist — typically at 10,000–15,000 km service intervals. Look for splits, cracks at the concertina folds, perished rubber, loose or missing clamps, or grease flicked around the subframe. Any dampness or road grime stuck to grease near the inner tie rods is a red flag. If a boot is damaged, replace it promptly, leaving it will only escalate wear on the rack and inner tie rods.

• Common signs a boot needs attention: cracking, visible tears, grease fling on the inside of a front wheel, new knocks over bumps, vague or notchy steering, and uneven tyre wear.
• Best practice on replacement: remove the tie rod end, slide off the old boot, clean the rack end, lightly regrease as per the workshop manual, fit the new boot without twisting, and secure with correct clamps.
• After any steering-end work, book a wheel alignment to keep the Camry tracking straight and protect the tyres.

Genuine-spec boots fit best and last longest, but quality aftermarket options are fine if they match the OEM profile and clamp style. Avoid cable ties, use proper boot bands to maintain a snug seal. Torque specs, alignment data, and EPS calibration checks should follow the Toyota Repair Manual — it’s the authoritative guide for this model.

Popular questions

Does the 2024 Toyota Camry have rack boots?
Yes. The AX70-series Camry runs an electric rack-and-pinion with bellows on both sides, as shown in Toyota’s Repair Manual and EPC. They protect the inner tie rods and the rack from water and grit.

How often should the rack boots be checked or replaced?
Have them inspected at each routine service (around 10,000–15,000 km). Replace immediately if cracked, torn, loose, or contaminated — there’s no set time limit, condition is what matters.

Can you drive with a torn rack boot?
You can limp short distances, but it’s risky. A split boot lets in dirt that can quickly wear the inner tie rod and rack. Get it replaced soon and follow up with a wheel alignment.