Parts for your 2013 Holden Colorado-Rack boots

2013 Holden Colorado Rack Boots

Rack boots are absolutely relevant on the 2013 Holden Colorado. Holden’s RG Colorado service information and GM’s electronic parts catalogue for the 2012–2016 RG platform show a power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering gear with a concertina-style steering gear boot (rack boot/bellows) fitted on each side of the rack. Many aftermarket catalogues list direct-fit rack boots for this model too, confirming their use.

On a 2013 Colorado, the rack boots do a simple but critical job: they seal the inner tie rods and the ends of the steering rack from grit, mud, water and road spray, while allowing the rack to move freely. They also keep the correct grease where it needs to be and help prevent dust from chewing out the rack seals. When a boot splits or the clamp loosens, water and dirt get in, which can lead to stiff steering, premature inner tie rod wear, uneven tyre wear, and a quick path to a WOF/RWC fail.

There’s no strict replacement interval, but regular checks are smart. A quick look at every service (about 10,000–15,000 km) under the front of the ute pays off. What to watch for:

• Cracks, perishing or splits in the rubber bellows
• Grease or oil weeping from inside the boot (can hint at a rack seal issue)
• Loose, missing or cable-tied clamps instead of proper band clamps

If a boot is damaged, it’s best practice to replace it promptly, and many techs will do both sides to keep things even. The steering tie rod end usually comes off to slip the new boot on, so a wheel alignment check afterwards is recommended. Use quality boots and proper stainless band clamps, avoid generic cable ties as they don’t seal as well and can let muck in on corrugated or off-road tracks.

Handy tips for a tidy job: centre the steering before removal, mark the tie rod locknut position, count the turns when removing the outer tie rod end, and make sure the new boot isn’t twisted or kinked at full lock. If contamination has been heavy (think muddy water crossings), consider inspecting the inner tie rods and refreshing the grease under the boot. Following the Holden/GM torque specs in the steering section of the RG Colorado manual will keep everything tight and trouble-free.

Popular questions about 2013 Holden Colorado rack boots

Do all 2013 Holden Colorado models have rack boots?
Yes. Both 2WD and 4x4 RG Colorados use a rack-and-pinion steering gear with a protective boot on each side. This is documented in Holden’s RG Colorado steering service procedures and reflected in GM’s parts listings for the steering gear assembly.

How often should rack boots be checked or replaced?
Check them at every routine service or about every 10,000–15,000 km. Replace any boot that’s cracked, split, perished, or has loose clamps. There’s no fixed time limit—condition and use (off-road, gravel, towing) are the big factors.

Is it okay to drive with a torn rack boot?
Best avoided. A torn boot invites dirt and water into the rack, accelerating wear and risking a steering gear or inner tie rod replacement later. If it’s already torn, limit driving and book the ute in, get an alignment check after the boot is replaced.