Parts for your 2017 Holden Barina-Rack boots

2017 Holden Barina Rack Boots (Steering Rack Bellows)

Based on technical references — including the Holden Barina TM (T300) workshop manual steering section and GM’s Electronic Parts Catalogue for TM Barina (2011–2018) — the 2017 Holden Barina is fitted with steering rack boots (also called bellows or gaiters) on both ends of its rack-and-pinion assembly. These boots are relevant service items, even though the Barina uses electric power steering (column-mounted EPS) rather than a hydraulic rack.

The rack boots on a 2017 Barina do a deceptively big job. They seal the inner tie rods and rack ends from grit, water, and road grime, while allowing the rack to move freely. With EPS there’s no power-steering fluid inside the boots, but a torn boot will still let contamination into the rack, leading to corrosion, notchy steering, accelerated inner tie rod wear, and eventually free play or clunks.

As part of routine servicing, the boots should be inspected every service interval for splits, perishing, or loose clamps. On vehicles this age, rubber can harden and crack, especially on cars seeing lots of heat or unsealed roads. If a boot is damaged, replace it promptly to avoid far pricier steering gear repairs.

• Tell-tales of a failing boot: visible cracks, grease weeping/dirt build-up inside the folds, or a popped clamp.
• When replacing: remove the tie-rod end, mark the locknut position or count the turns, and fit new OE-style ear clamps rather than cable ties.
• Orientation matters: ensure the boot isn’t twisted and the breather grooves (if present) aren’t blocked, so the bellows can compress/expand without stress.
• After any tie-rod removal, a wheel alignment is recommended.

There’s no fixed age or kilometre interval for replacement, it’s condition-based. Many Barinas will see original boots last well past 100,000 km, but once cracks appear, it’s time. Quality, model-specific boots are preferred over universal types for correct length, inner/outer diameters, and travel. During installation, lightly lubricate the inner lip so it seats without nicking, and always replace both clamps. If contamination has been present for a while, it’s smart to check the inner tie rod for play and the rack for smooth travel before buttoning it up.

For owners and workshops alike, keeping those boots intact is cheap insurance for a tight, quiet Barina steering feel.

FAQs

Does a 2017 Holden Barina actually have rack boots?
Yes. The TM-series Barina (T300) uses a rack-and-pinion with bellows-style boots on both ends. Technical documentation for the model’s steering system lists the boots and their clamps as serviceable components.

How often should rack boots be checked or replaced on a 2017 Barina?
Check them at every service. Replace on condition — if they’re split, perished, loose, or contaminated with grit. Many last beyond 100,000 km, but age and heat can speed up cracking.

Is it OK to drive with a split rack boot?
Short trips straight to a workshop are usually fine, but prolonged driving risks dirt ingress that can damage the inner tie rod and rack teeth. Replacing a boot is far cheaper than a steering rack.