Parts for your 2015 Honda Accord-Rack boots

2015 Honda Accord rack boots: what they do and when to sort them out

Yes, the 2015 Honda Accord uses rack boots. Honda’s factory service information for the 9th‑gen Accord (2013–2017) shows a rack‑and‑pinion steering gear with bellows boots on each end, and Honda’s genuine parts catalogues list those boots and bands as service items. Even though this Accord runs electric power steering (EPS) rather than a hydraulic rack, the steering rack still relies on flexible “gaiters” (rack boots) to protect the rack ends and inner tie‑rod joints.

Rack boots are there to keep dust, water and road grit out, while letting the steering move freely. They also help retain the light grease around the inner tie‑rod ball joints. If a boot splits or the bands loosen, moisture and contaminants can sneak in, accelerating wear on the inner tie rods and the rack bar itself. On an EPS Accord there shouldn’t be any power steering fluid inside the boots, so if a boot is torn you’ll usually see dirt ingress or slung grease, not fluid leaks.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to have the rack boots inspected every service or at least every 10,000–15,000 kilometres. A mechanic will check for cracks, splits, perishing, or loose/damaged boot bands. If a boot is compromised, replace it promptly to avoid pricey steering gear repairs later. Many workshops replace the boot on the affected side, but if the other side looks aged, doing both saves a second visit.

Good practice on a 2015 Accord includes using proper boot bands (not cable ties), aligning the boot so it isn’t twisted at full lock, and refitting any breather/vent tube between the boots if equipped. Because the outer tie‑rod end is usually removed to slip a new boot on, plan on a wheel alignment afterwards to reset toe. If inner or outer tie rods show play, it’s efficient to replace those at the same time, fit new cotter pins, and torque everything to spec.

• Replace or investigate if there are visible splits, perishing, or slung grease on the subframe.
• Act after flood driving, beach runs, or if a WOF/RWC check flags a torn boot.
• Sort promptly if there’s gritty steering feel or clunks—contamination may have started wear.

Popular questions about 2015 Honda Accord rack boots

Does a 2015 Honda Accord actually have rack boots?
It does. Technical documentation for the 2013–2017 Accord shows bellows‑type boots on both ends of the steering rack, and OEM/aftermarket catalogues list direct‑fit replacements. The EPS setup doesn’t change the need for boots to seal the rack ends and inner tie rods.

How often should the rack boots be checked or replaced?
Have them inspected at each service or at least every 10,000–15,000 km. There’s no fixed replacement interval—swap them when cracking, splits, or loose bands are found. If one fails and the other looks tired, replacing both is a sensible move.

Is it safe to drive with a torn rack boot?
Short term, the car will still steer, but grit and water can quickly damage the inner tie rod and rack, turning a cheap boot into an expensive rack job. It can also trigger a WOF/RWC fail. Best to repair and get an alignment as soon as practical.