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Parts for your 2013 Holden Barina-Rack boots
2013 Holden Barina rack boots: what’s fitted and how to look after them
Technical references confirm the 2013 Holden Barina (TM, T300 platform) does use rack-and-pinion bellows, commonly called rack boots. The GM Global Service Information for the TM Barina includes a “Steering Gear Bellows (Boot) – Replace” procedure, and GM’s Global Electronic Parts Catalogue lists a boot/bellows kit for the steering gear on this model. Major aftermarket catalogues that map to the same platform (Chevrolet Sonic/Aveo T300) also list steering rack bellows kits for 2011–2016 Barina. That all points to rack boots being fitted from factory and relevant to routine servicing on this vehicle.
On the 2013 Barina, the rack boots sit on each end of the steering rack and cover the inner tie rods. Their job is to keep road grit, water and dust away from the rack bar and inner tie rod joints, and to contain the correct grease where it needs to be. Even though steering assist on this model is electric at the column (not hydraulic at the rack), the bellows are still critical for smooth steering feel and long component life.
Left to degrade, a split or perished boot can let contamination into the rack, accelerating wear of the inner tie rod and rack bush, causing notchy steering and, in time, free play. It’s also a common WOF/rego fail in NZ and Australia if the boot is torn or missing.
- Purpose: seal out dirt and water, retain grease on the inner tie rod, protect the rack bar and seals.
- Benefits: consistent steering feel, reduced wear, helps keep alignment stable, prevents expensive rack damage.
As part of normal servicing, the Barina benefits from a quick visual check of both bellows every 10,000–15,000 km or at each service. Look for cracks, tears, loosened clamps or grease flung onto the control arm or subframe. Any damage means prompt replacement is wise.
- Replace the damaged boot as soon as it’s found, if rubber on one side is badly perished, consider doing both.
- Use quality bellows and proper clamps, cable ties aren’t ideal and can loosen.
- Clean and re-grease the inner tie rod ball if contamination is present, if there’s scoring or excess play, replace the inner tie rod too.
- Orient the boot so it isn’t twisted and can breathe as the rack moves lock-to-lock.
- Expect to need a wheel alignment if the outer tie rod end is removed or adjusted during the job.
With healthy rack boots, this Barina’s steering stays tight, quiet and predictable, avoiding the hassle and cost of a premature rack replacement.
Are rack boots fitted to the 2013 Holden Barina?
Yes. The TM (T300) Barina uses a rack-and-pinion steering gear with bellows-style rack boots on both sides. Workshop procedures and parts catalogues for this model list the steering gear bellows/boot as a serviceable component.
What are common signs the rack boots need attention?
Grease flung around the inner guard or subframe, visible cracks or a split in the bellows, damp contamination inside the boot, notchy steering or a light knock over bumps. Any tear usually calls for replacement before dirt chews out the inner tie rod.
Is a wheel alignment needed after replacing a boot?
If the outer tie rod end is disturbed, an alignment is recommended. If the boot can be slipped over without altering toe, the settings may remain unchanged, but most workshops will check alignment to be safe.
