Parts for your 2013 Honda Elysion-Rack boots

2013 Honda Elysion rack-boots

Based on Honda’s service literature for the Elysion (RR1–RR6 chassis), the steering section specifies a rack-and-pinion assembly with protective bellows on both ends, commonly called rack boots. Honda’s Electronic Parts Catalogue for the same platform also lists left and right “steering gear boots/gaiters” as service parts, confirming they’re fitted to the 2013 Honda Elysion. Independent workshop manuals for late‑2000s to early‑2010s Honda MPVs echo this arrangement and outline inspection/replacement procedures for the boots.

On the 2013 Honda Elysion, rack boots do a simple but critical job: they keep grit, water, and road spray out of the steering rack and the inner tie-rod joints. By sealing the moving parts and holding a small volume of grease, the boots help the steering feel stay smooth and protect the rack seals from premature wear. Whether the vehicle’s steering is hydraulic-assist or electric-assist, the boots are still used, because the rack ends and inner joints need that protection either way.

For servicing, it’s smart to have the rack boots inspected at every routine service interval (typically 10,000–15,000 km in AU/NZ conditions). Age, UV, and heat can make the rubber go hard and crack. If a boot is torn, perished, or slipping off its clamp, it should be replaced straight away. Driving with a split boot invites contamination, which can chew out the inner joint and, on hydraulic racks, allow power-steering fluid to collect inside the boot—often a sign of an internal rack seal leak.

What to look for:

• Cracks, splits, or oil-soaked rubber
• Grease or fluid flung around the inner guard
• Clicking or looseness from the inner tie-rod area
• Uneven tyre wear from altered toe if the joint’s been affected

Replacing a rack boot on the Elysion typically involves separating the outer tie-rod end from the knuckle, counting the turns or marking the threads, sliding the old boot off, cleaning the rack end, then fitting the new boot with correct clamps. A wheel alignment is recommended afterwards, especially if the tie-rod position was disturbed. Use quality clamps (not generic cable ties) so the boot seals properly and can breathe as it compresses and expands. If fluid is found inside a boot on a hydraulic system, plan for a rack reseal or replacement rather than just a new boot.

Keeping the rack boots healthy is cheap insurance against costly steering rack repairs and helps the Elysion track straight and feel tidy on Aussie and Kiwi roads.

Popular questions about 2013 Honda Elysion rack-boots

Do all 2013 Elysion models have rack boots, even with electric power steering?
Yes. Regardless of whether the assistance is hydraulic or electric, the Elysion uses a rack-and-pinion with inner tie-rod joints, and those joints are protected by rack boots. If fluid is found inside a boot, that points to a hydraulic rack issue, otherwise, the inspection criteria are the same.

How often should rack boots be replaced?
There’s no fixed kilometre interval. In AU/NZ, they’re inspected at each service and replaced when cracked, torn, loose, or oil-soaked. Many last 8–12 years, but heat, road grime, and off‑seal use can shorten that.

Will replacing a rack boot require a wheel alignment?
It’s best practice to check alignment afterward. Careful techs mark threads and count turns to preserve toe, but even a small change can nudge tyre wear. An alignment confirms the Elysion is pointing straight and steering nicely.