Parts for your 2017 Nissan Pathfinder-Rack boots

2017 Nissan Pathfinder rack-boots (steering rack bellows)

Technical sources confirm the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder (R52) is built with rack-and-pinion steering and uses protective bellows, commonly called rack-boots. The Nissan Pathfinder 2017 Electronic Service Manual (ST – Steering System) shows the steering gear with “boot – steering gear” and boot bands in its component/exploded views, and the Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue (Steering Gear & Linkage diagram) lists the same boots for each side of the rack. Even though the R52 runs electric power steering, the rack still relies on these boots to seal the inner tie-rod area and protect the rack bar and bearings.

On this model, rack-boots do a simple but vital job: they keep dust, water and grit out of the steering rack while letting the inner tie rods move freely. They also help retain grease around the inner sockets and act as a first barrier for the rack’s seals and bearings. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions—gravel roads, corrugations, coastal air and creek crossings—intact boots massively reduce contamination and corrosion risk. A split or dislodged boot can quickly let muck into the rack, which can lead to stiffness, knocks, premature inner tie-rod wear, uneven tyre wear and, in the worst case, an expensive steering gear replacement.

For servicing a 2017 Pathfinder, it’s smart to include a quick visual check of both rack-boots at each service interval (around 10,000–15,000 km or 6–12 months, depending on schedule). Look for cracks, oil or grease weepage, missing clamps, or a boot that’s collapsed or ballooning. If a boot is damaged, replacement should be done promptly. Quality matters here: use OE or premium aftermarket boots with proper stainless or ear-type clamps—skip cable ties. The job involves removing the outer tie-rod end, sliding the old boot off, cleaning and regreasing the inner joint area, then refitting the new boot without twists and with both clamps seated. Any disturbance to the tie-rod length means a wheel alignment is recommended afterwards. Given age and exposure, replacing boots in pairs is often sensible. While in there, the technician should check inner and outer tie-rod play and confirm the rack breathes freely through the boots (some designs equalise air volume side to side). Kept sealed and secure, the Pathfinder’s rack-boots significantly extend steering gear life.

• Common signs: visible splits, grease on the boot, grit inside, steering knock or stiffness, and new uneven tyre wear.

Popular questions

Does the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder have rack-boots?
Yes. The R52 Pathfinder’s electric rack-and-pinion steering uses a protective bellows boot on each side. The Nissan service manual’s steering section and the parts catalogue both show and list these boots and their clamps.

How often should rack-boots be inspected or replaced?
Inspect at every service or 10,000–15,000 km. Replace as soon as any split, clamp failure or contamination is found—there’s no fixed time limit, it’s condition-based. After replacement, a wheel alignment is recommended.

Is it safe to drive with a torn rack-boot?
It’s not ideal. Dirt and water can enter the steering gear and inner tie-rod area, accelerating wear and potentially damaging the rack. Short trips to a workshop are usually fine, but prompt repair avoids bigger bills later.