Parts for your 2013 Nissan Pulsar-Rack boots

2013 Nissan Pulsar rack-boots

Based on technical references, rack-boots are absolutely used on the 2013 Nissan Pulsar. The Nissan Factory Service Manual (FSM) for the Pulsar/Sylphy B17 and C12, Steering (ST) section, shows the steering gear assembly fitted with a “boot – steering gear” (bellows) on each side. Nissan’s Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC/FAST) also lists these bellows for the model range, and mainstream ANZ parts catalogues carry direct-fit rack-boots for 2013 Pulsar variants. So they’re relevant, fitted, and worth keeping in good nick.

On a 2013 Pulsar, the rack-boots (also called rack gaiters) sit over the ends of the steering rack, sealing the inner tie rods and rack bar from dust, water, and road grit. Whether it’s electric power steering (common on these models) or hydraulic, those rubber bellows are doing the same essential job: holding in grease, keeping out contamination, and preventing premature wear of the rack and inner joints.

Tell-tale signs a boot’s had it include visible splits or perishing, greasy fling on the inner guard or subframe, a notchy feel through the wheel, or a clack over bumps as grit accelerates joint wear. In NZ and Australia, a torn rack-boot is typically a WoF/roadworthy fail, so it’s not one to ignore.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to eyeball the boots every 10,000–15,000 km. If one side’s torn, replace both sides, rubber ages as a set. Use new clamps (don’t rely on cable ties), and avoid twisting the bellows when sliding them on. If the boot’s been split for a while, have the inner tie rod checked for play and the rack inspected for rust pitting under the bellows.

• Quality matters: choose OE or reputable aftermarket neoprene boots for better heat/ozone resistance.
• Expect a wheel alignment: the outer tie-rod end usually comes off to fit the boot, and toe will shift.
• Torque it right: tighten the tie-rod end and clamp hardware to spec, and re-check after a short drive.

Note for owners: most 2013 Pulsars in AU/NZ use electric power steering, so spotting oily residue around a boot often points to sling-off from nearby components, not a PS fluid leak. Still, a torn boot lets in water and grit, so sort it promptly to avoid a bigger bill down the track.

Does a 2013 Nissan Pulsar actually have rack-boots?

Yes. Both B17 sedan and C12 hatch variants use bellows-style rack-boots on each end of the steering rack. This is documented in the Nissan FSM (Steering/ST section) and reflected in OEM and aftermarket parts listings across Australia and New Zealand. They protect the inner tie rods and rack from contamination.

How often should rack-boots be replaced or checked?

There’s no set replacement interval, they’re replaced on condition. Check them at every service or at least every 10,000–15,000 km. If there are cracks, splits, or the rubber’s gone soft and sticky, replace them—ideally as a pair. A damaged boot will quickly lead to inner joint wear and potential rack damage.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing rack-boots?

Almost always, yes. The outer tie-rod end is typically removed or disturbed to slide the new boot on, and that changes toe. A proper alignment saves tyres and keeps the Pulsar tracking straight. Ask the shop to centre the steering wheel and provide a before/after printout.