Parts for your 2018 Holden Colorado-Rack boots

2018 Holden Colorado Rack Boots

Yes, rack boots are used on the 2018 Holden Colorado (RG). This fitment is confirmed by technical sources including the Holden RG Colorado Service Manual (Steering – Rack and Pinion), the GM Global EPC for 2018 RG Colorado (Steering Gear and Linkage), and Australian/NZ parts catalogues from ACDelco/GM Genuine and major retailers (e.g., Repco, NAPA), all of which list left and right steering rack bellows/boots for this model.

On the Colorado, the rack boots (also called bellows) seal the ends of the rack-and-pinion housing and shield the inner tie rods. Their job is to keep out water, dust, and mud while allowing the steering to move freely. They also help manage air displacement inside the rack ends and keep lubrication where it belongs. If a boot tears, grit can work its way into the inner tie rod and rack bush area, accelerating wear and potentially damaging the steering rack seals. If oil is found inside a boot, that’s a red flag for internal rack seal leakage rather than a boot issue.

For owners who tow, tour, or hit corrugations and creek crossings, healthy rack boots are essential. As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect both boots every 10,000–15,000 kilometres (or at each service): look for cracks, splits, squashed bellows, missing or loose clamps, and any signs of fluid. After deep water or muddy tracks, give them an extra check. The small breather/equaliser between boots (if fitted) should be intact and unblocked.

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech and typically involves removing the outer tie rod end, sliding off the old boot, cleaning the area, and fitting a quality OE-equivalent boot with proper clamps. Cable ties are a last resort, OE-style clamps hold tension better over time. It’s best practice to replace boots in pairs. Even if toe is carefully marked during the job, a wheel alignment should be carried out afterward to protect tyres and ensure the Colorado tracks straight.

Choosing good materials matters. Neoprene or TPE boots from reputable brands resist ozone and UV cracking better than bargain options. A light smear of the specified grease on the inner tie rod ball (if the manual calls for it) and careful routing of any breather hose help the new boots last. Keep them tidy, and the rack-and-pinion in a 2018 Holden Colorado will generally go the distance without drama.

• Inspect boots every service or 10,000–15,000 km
• Replace torn, cracked, oil-wet, or loose-boot assemblies promptly
• Use OE-style clamps and follow torque specs
• Book a wheel alignment after replacement

Does the 2018 Holden Colorado have rack boots?

Yes. The RG Colorado runs a rack-and-pinion steering assembly with protective bellows (rack boots) on each end. This is supported by the Holden RG Colorado Service Manual and GM Global EPC listings for the 2018 model year.

How often should rack boots be replaced on a 2018 Colorado?

There’s no fixed interval. They should be inspected at every service and replaced if cracked, split, oil-wet, or if clamps have perished. In typical use they can last years, frequent off-road work or coastal exposure may shorten their life.

Can they drive with a torn rack boot?

It’s not recommended. A torn boot lets grit and water attack the inner tie rod and rack seals, which can turn a cheap boot job into a costly steering rack replacement. If a boot is damaged, book the repair and follow up with a wheel alignment.