Parts for your 2018 Nissan Serena-Rack boots

2018 Nissan Serena rack-boots: what they do and when to sort them

Rack-boots are absolutely fitted to the 2018 Nissan Serena (C27). Nissan’s C27 Serena Service Manual (Steering “ST” section) describes a rack-and-pinion steering gear with bellows-type boots on each end, and the Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue lists these as the steering gear boot/gaiter. So rack-boots are relevant for this model and matter for ongoing servicing.

On the Serena’s electric power steering rack, the rack-boots (also called gaiters) are the flexible bellows that seal the ends of the steering rack and protect the inner tie rods. Their job is to keep water, grit, and road grime out while holding the correct grease inside, so the rack slides freely and the inner tie rods last. If those boots split, contaminants race straight into the rack, which can chew out joints and seals far quicker than normal.

• Keep crud and moisture out of the steering rack
• Help preserve grease around the inner tie rods
• Reduce wear, noise, and play in the steering
• Prevent WOF/roadworthy failures due to split gaiters

As part of routine servicing, a quick visual check makes sense. On hoist or ramps, look for cracked rubber, splits in the bellows pleats, loose or missing clamps, and any sling of grease on the subframe. Because the Serena’s rack is electrically assisted and sealed, finding oil or heavy grease inside the boot usually points to contamination or an internal rack issue that needs attention.

• Inspect every service or 10,000–15,000 km, especially if the vehicle lives near the coast or sees rough roads
• Replace boots at the first sign of cracking, tearing, or loose bands
• Always use new clamps/bands, many are single-use ear clamps
• If the outer tie-rod end is removed to slip a boot on, a wheel alignment check is wise

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech: secure the vehicle, mark the tie-rod position, remove the outer end as required, clean and regrease the inner area, slide on the new boot, and fit new clamps without twisting the bellows. Following the Nissan workshop procedure ensures the boot sits neutrally at straight-ahead so it doesn’t stretch at full lock. Quality OEM-equivalent rubber or TPE boots cope better with Aussie and Kiwi heat, UV, and road spray, helping the Serena steer quietly and precisely for the long haul.

Popular questions about 2018 Nissan Serena rack-boots

Do all 2018 Nissan Serena models have rack-boots?
Yes. The C27 Serena uses a rack-and-pinion steering gear with bellows boots on both ends, regardless of trim. The boots protect the rack and inner tie rods from dirt and moisture, critical for long-term steering health.

How often should rack-boots be checked or replaced?
They’re not a timed replacement item, but they should be inspected at every service. In harsher conditions—coastal areas, gravel roads, big temperature swings—checks every 10,000–15,000 km are smart. Replace immediately if cracked, split, or if clamps are loose.

Is a wheel alignment needed after changing rack-boots?
If the outer tie-rod end is removed to fit the new boot, the toe setting can shift. Counting turns helps, but a post-job alignment check is recommended to keep the Serena tracking straight and protect tyres.