Parts for your 2013 Volvo Xc60-Rack boots

2013 Volvo XC60 Rack Boots: What They Do and When to Replace Them

Referencing Volvo VIDA (factory workshop manual) and the genuine Volvo parts catalogue for the P3-platform 2013 Volvo XC60, this model uses a rack-and-pinion steering gear fitted with protective bellows on both sides of the rack—commonly called rack boots or rack gaiters. Whether the vehicle is equipped with hydraulic or electric power assist, the steering rack features these boots, making the part fully relevant for servicing.

The rack boots on a 2013 Volvo XC60 shield the inner tie rods and the rack’s end seals from dust, water, and grit. They also help keep grease where it belongs and, on many racks, allow air to move between sides via small vents so the boots don’t balloon or collapse during steering. If a boot splits, contamination can wear out inner tie rods and seals in short order, leading to play, noise, and even steering-fluid loss on hydraulic systems.

As part of regular servicing, rack boots deserve a quick visual once-over every service interval. Any sign of cracking, oil or grease weeping, or loose bands is a red flag. If replacement is needed, it’s sensible to do boots in pairs and use OE-quality bellows and new clamps. After any tie-rod or boot work, a proper wheel alignment is recommended to keep tyre wear even and steering feel spot on.

1. Signs a rack boot needs attention:
   • Visible splits, perishing, or missing clamps
   • Grease slung inside the wheel or on the lower control arm
   • Oil residue around the boot on hydraulic racks
   • New play or a knock when turning, especially over bumps
2. Good practice during replacement:
   • Check inner tie-rod joints for free play while the boot is off
   • Fit clamps to the correct grooves and to proper tension
   • Avoid twisting the boot—steering from lock to lock after fitment helps it settle
   • Retain or reconnect any rack venting between boots if present

Left unchecked, a torn boot can let water into the rack, accelerating corrosion and damaging seals—far costlier than a simple boot and clamp job. For an XC60 doing mixed city and highway kilometres, a careful inspection at each service keeps the steering tight and the rack healthy for the long haul.

Popular questions about 2013 Volvo XC60 rack boots

Do all 2013 Volvo XC60s have rack boots, even with electric power steering?
Yes. According to Volvo VIDA and the OEM parts catalogue for the XC60, the steering rack uses bellows-style boots on both sides regardless of whether the assist is hydraulic or electric. The boots protect the rack ends and inner tie rods from contamination.

How often should the rack boots be checked?
At every routine service. A quick visual inspection for splits, oil or grease, or loose bands is enough. If the vehicle sees a lot of gravel roads or flooding, it’s worth checking more frequently.

Is it safe to drive with a torn rack boot?
It’s not ideal. Short, gentle trips may be possible, but grit and moisture can rapidly damage inner tie rods and rack seals. Replacing the boot promptly helps avoid premature rack wear and an expensive repair later.