Parts for your 2010 Honda Elysion-Rack boots

2010 Honda Elysion rack boots: what they do and when to sort them

Yes, the 2010 Honda Elysion is fitted with rack boots. Honda’s Electronic Parts Catalogue for the Elysion RR1–RR4 series (covering 2010) shows a rack-and-pinion steering gear with a rubber “rack boot” (gaiter) on each end, complete with inner and outer clamps. The factory Service Manual steering-gear section also details inspection and replacement of these boots, so they’re very much a relevant service item on this model.

On the Elysion, rack boots are the bellows-style rubber sleeves that seal the inner tie-rod joints and the ends of the steering rack. Their job is to keep grit and water out, hold the right amount of lubricant where it’s needed, and allow air to move as the rack slides left and right. When they crack or split, road grime works its way in, chewing out the inner tie rods and the rack’s seals. On hydraulic racks, fluid collecting inside a boot can also signal an internal rack seal leak.

As part of routine servicing in Australia and New Zealand, it’s smart to check the Elysion’s rack boots at each service or at least every 10,000–15,000 kilometres. Look for perishing, splits, missing clamps, or grease flung around the inner wheel area. Torn boots can lead to a WOF/roadworthy fail and more expensive steering repairs if ignored.

• Best practice is to replace boots in pairs and always fit new clamps (avoid cable ties).
• Don’t over-pack the boot with grease, use the amount specified by Honda and a light smear on the inner tie-rod ball.
• Keep the steering centred when refitting so the boot sits naturally and doesn’t twist.
• If hydraulic fluid is found inside a boot, plan on rack repair or replacement, not just a new boot.

Depending on approach, boot replacement may disturb toe settings. Marking the tie-rod threads and counting turns can get it close, but organising a proper wheel alignment after the job is the right move for tyre wear and steering feel. Most shops will allow roughly an hour per side, tools permitting (a tie-rod end separator and boot clamp tool help a lot).

Look after the boots and the Elysion’s steering stays light, quiet, and tight — exactly how a family people-mover should feel on Aussie and Kiwi roads.

Popular questions

Does a 2010 Honda Elysion actually have rack boots?
Yes. Honda’s EPC for the RR1–RR4 Elysion and the factory Service Manual both show and describe left and right rack boots with clamps on the steering gear. They’re standard equipment and a normal inspection item.

How often should the rack boots be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval. Inspect them at every service and replace as soon as cracking, splitting, or loose/missing clamps are found. In local conditions, original boots often last 6–10 years, but heat, gravel roads, and coastal air can shorten that.

Is it safe to drive with a torn rack boot?
It’ll still steer, but it’s not a good idea. Dirt and water can quickly damage the inner tie rod and rack seals, leading to play, noise, and leaks — and likely a WOF/roadworthy fail. If there’s power steering fluid inside the boot, the rack itself needs attention.