Parts for your 2014 Honda Cr-v-Rack boots

2014 Honda CR‑V rack boots — what they do and how to look after them

Rack boots are absolutely relevant to the 2014 Honda CR‑V. Honda’s service information for the 2012–2016 CR‑V (RM series) shows a rack‑and‑pinion steering gearbox with a concertina‑style rubber boot on each end of the rack (often called bellows or rack boots). The Honda genuine parts catalogue for 2014 CR‑V models also lists left and right steering rack boots and bands, confirming they’re fitted to this vehicle. Even though this CR‑V uses Electric Power Steering (EPS), it still has a mechanical steering rack that relies on boots to keep contaminants out.

On the 2014 CR‑V, the rack boots seal the inner tie rods and the ends of the steering rack, keeping water, grit and road grime out while letting the rack move freely. That protection helps prevent corrosion and wear in the rack and inner tie rods, preserving steering feel and avoiding costly rack repairs. Because the system is electric (not hydraulic), a split boot won’t fill with power‑steering fluid, if there’s wetness it’s usually grease from the inner tie rod or just road spray.

As part of routine servicing, a quick visual check of the boots is smart maintenance. Look for cracks, splits, loose or missing bands, or grease flung around the inner wheel area. Any damage means replacement should be done promptly so the rack doesn’t cop dirt or water.

• Typical warning signs: perished rubber, visible tears, oily/greasy residue near the inner tie rod, sand or water intrusion, or a knocking/rough feel when turning the wheel.
• Good practice at service time: inspect both boots with the wheels turned lock‑to‑lock, confirm bands are tight and properly located, and check inner tie rod play while you’re there.
• Replacement tips: use new bands, avoid twisting the bellows, seat the boot fully in its grooves, and keep any venting path clear so the boot can breathe as it compresses and extends.

There’s no fixed replacement interval, it’s condition‑based. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions, a quick check every service (10,000–15,000 km) is ideal. If a boot’s torn, don’t delay—leaving it open can fast‑track wear in the rack and inner tie rod, turning a cheap boot job into a pricier steering repair.

Popular questions

How do they know if their 2014 CR‑V’s rack boots need replacing?

Usually by inspection: cracks, splits, missing bands, or grease around the inner end of the tie rod are giveaways. Turning the steering from lock to lock with a torch on the boot makes damage easier to spot. Any tear large enough to let in grit or water means it’s time to replace.

Will a torn rack boot fail a WOF or roadworthy?

Often, yes. A split boot that allows contamination or is insecure can be grounds for rejection. It’s not just a box‑ticking item—leaving it damaged can lead to corrosion in the rack and inner tie rod wear, so it’s worth sorting quickly.

Are the left and right rack boots the same on the 2014 CR‑V?

They’re a matched pair for the rack, but part numbers and band styles can differ by side or build. Using vehicle‑specific boots and new bands is the safest bet for a proper seal and fit on the RM‑series CR‑V.