Parts for your 2016 Holden Commodore-Rack boots

2016 Holden Commodore rack-boots: what they do and when to replace them

Yes, the 2016 Holden Commodore (VF Series II) uses steering rack boots (also called rack bellows or gaiters). This is confirmed by workshop literature such as the Holden/GM Global Service Information for VF steering gear and boot clamp procedures, along with third‑party manuals covering VE–VF (2006–2017) that include rack gaiter inspection and replacement steps. Parts catalogues for VF racks likewise list specific rack boot kits for 2013–2017 Commodore models. So the rack-boots are absolutely relevant and fitted to this vehicle.

On a 2016 Commodore, the rack-boots sit on each end of the rack-and-pinion steering gear, whether it’s hydraulic or electric power assisted. Their job is simple but critical: keep grit, water, and road grime out of the rack, and keep lubrication where it belongs. If a boot splits, the inner tie-rod joint and the rack teeth can cop abrasive muck, which speeds up wear, creates play at the wheel, and can make the steering feel notchy or vague.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to eyeball the rack-boots anytime the car’s on a hoist. Look for splits, perishing, loose clamps, or oil/grease seeping out. If there’s hydraulic fluid under a boot on a hydraulic system, that can hint at an internal rack seal issue, with electric racks, you’ll usually just see grease or dry contamination. Either way, a damaged boot should be replaced promptly.

Replacing a rack boot is a straightforward job for a competent tech: remove the tie-rod end, slide off the old boot and clamps, clean the rack end, then fit the new boot with new OE-style clamps. The tie-rod locknut should be set correctly, and because the tie-rod end is disturbed, a wheel alignment is recommended straight after. Avoid flimsy cable ties, proper ear or band clamps maintain the seal and prevent the boot from creeping.

How often? There’s no fixed interval—inspect every service (or at least every 10,000–15,000 km). Cars that see rough roads, floodwater, or track days deserve even more frequent checks. Catching a split boot early costs peanuts compared to a worn rack or inner tie-rod. Keep the boots healthy and the VF’s steering stays tight, quiet, and predictable.

• Watch for: cracking, splits, loose clamps, or steering play.
• Replace boots in pairs if they’re the same age or look tired.
• Always follow torque specs and get an alignment after replacement.

Popular questions about 2016 Holden Commodore rack-boots

How do you spot a failing rack boot on a VF Commodore?
Tell‑tales include visible cracks or tears in the bellows, grease flung onto the lower control arm or subframe, or dirt packed around the inner tie‑rod area. You might also notice new play in the steering or a slight knock over bumps as the inner joint wears from contamination.

A quick torch inspection with the wheels at full lock often reveals splits in the folds. If in doubt, get a workshop to hoist it and check both sides end‑to‑end.

Do electric‑assist VF racks still need rack-boots?
They sure do. Even with electric power steering, the mechanical rack-and-pinion and inner tie‑rods need protection from grit and moisture. The boot design and clamps differ slightly by rack variant, but the purpose and maintenance are the same.

Will replacing a rack boot affect wheel alignment?
If the tie‑rod end is removed to fit the boot—as is common—then yes, an alignment is recommended. Marking positions helps, but fine toe settings are best dialled in on an alignment rig to keep tyre wear and steering feel spot‑on.