Parts for your 2008 Honda Stream-Rack boots

2008 Honda Stream rack-boots: what they do and when to replace them

Based on Honda’s technical literature and parts catalogues, rack-boots (also called steering rack bellows or gaiters) are fitted to the 2008 Honda Stream (RN6–RN9). The Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue for this model range lists a “Boot, Steering Gear” and matching boot bands on both sides of the rack, and the Honda workshop manual includes a dedicated procedure under Steering for rack-boot inspection and replacement. Whether a particular Stream variant uses electric or hydraulic power assist, it still employs a rack-and-pinion with protective boots on each end.

On the 2008 Honda Stream, the rack-boots act like flexible dust covers that seal the inner tie rods and the ends of the steering rack. They keep water, grit, and road muck out while helping retain the correct grease around moving joints. That protection matters, once a boot splits, grime can chew through inner tie rods and the rack itself, leading to play in the steering, corrosion, and expensive repairs. It’s also a common WOF/roadworthy fail across Australia and New Zealand.

Good servicing practice is to inspect the rack-boots at each service or at least every 10,000–15,000 km. With the Stream on stands, turn the steering lock-to-lock and check both boots for cracks, oiliness, or loose bands. On hydraulic-assisted cars, a wet, oily boot can hint at a leaking rack seal. Any tear, even a pinhole, is grounds for replacement because contamination travels fast once the seal is broken.

When replacing, quality matters. Choose OEM or reputable aftermarket boots made from durable elastomer that won’t harden in the Aussie heat or NZ winters. Replace the bands at the same time—proper ear clamps or Honda-style bands keep tension without cutting into the rubber. Avoid cable ties that can loosen or deform the boot. A light smear of appropriate grease on the boot lip helps it seat, don’t pack the boot with grease, as it needs to breathe and flex.

A typical replacement involves removing the wheel, separating the outer tie-rod end, measuring or counting threads to preserve toe, sliding the new boot on, and securing the bands before refitting the tie-rod end to spec. Because toe can still shift, a wheel alignment afterwards is smart money. Most workshops will quote around 0.7–1.2 hours per side plus an alignment, parts usually run $25–$80 each in AUD/NZD depending on brand.

To extend boot life, keep solvent sprays away from the rubber, check for contact or over-stretch on lowered cars, and don’t ignore small weeps or early cracking—sorting it early saves the steering gear and the wallet.

• Signs of failure: cracks, splits, grease fling, oily residue (hydraulic racks), clacking on bumps from worn inner tie rods.
• Best practice: inspect every service, replace damaged boots promptly, use correct bands, book an alignment after work on tie-rod ends.

Popular questions about 2008 Honda Stream rack-boots

How do I know the rack-boots on my 2008 Stream need replacing?

Look for visible cracks, splits, or missing bands, and any grease or oil sprayed around the inner tie-rod area. If the steering feels loose or knocks over bumps, the boots may have failed long enough for the inner tie rods to wear. Any damage means replacement is due straight away to prevent water and grit getting into the rack.

Can I drive with a torn rack-boot?

It will still drive, but it’s not a good idea. A torn boot lets contamination in and grease out, accelerating wear on the inner tie rod and rack. Keep driving and you risk turning a simple boot job into a steering rack replacement—and a WOF/roadworthy fail. Get it sorted promptly and book an alignment afterwards.

Do both rack-boots need to be replaced together?

Not strictly, but it’s often smart. If one side has split from age, the other is usually close behind. Replacing as a pair can save time and labour, and ensures both boots are equally fresh and flexible.