Parts for your 2019 Nissan Serena-Rack boots

2019 Nissan Serena (C27) rack-boots: what they do and when to replace them

Rack-boots are absolutely relevant to the 2019 Nissan Serena (C27). Nissan’s Electronic Service Manual for the C27 (ST – Steering, “Steering Gear and Linkage”) depicts bellows-style steering rack boots on both sides of the rack-and-pinion assembly, and Nissan’s genuine parts catalog lists a “Boot – Steering Gear” for this model. Aftermarket catalogues for the C27 likewise offer rack-boot kits that suit the Serena’s electric power steering rack. So yes—this vehicle is fitted with rack-boots, and they’re a normal service item.

On the Serena, the rack-boots (also called steering rack gaiters) are the flexible bellows that seal the inner tie rods and rack ends from dust, grit, water and road splash. They keep the sliding section of the rack clean and hold the correct amount of grease where it needs to be, helping the steering stay quiet, precise and long-lived. Even though the C27 runs electric power steering (so there’s no power steering fluid to leak), a torn or loose boot can still let in moisture and contaminants, leading to corrosion of the rack bar and premature inner tie-rod wear. Left too long, that can mean play in the steering, a knocking over bumps, or EPS assist noise.

Best practice is to inspect the rack-boots at every service interval. A quick look while the Serena is on the hoist is usually enough: the boots should be pliable, uncracked and properly clamped. If they’re perished, split, weeping grease, or the clamps have let go, it’s time to replace them—ideally in pairs. Quality EPDM boots with proper stainless or OEM spring clamps are worth the few extra dollars.

• Common signs it’s time: visible cracks, splits, missing/loose clamps, grease contamination, light clatter over bumps, or uneven steering feel.
• Good workshop practice: mark the outer tie-rod locknut, remove the rod end, slide the old boot off, clean and lightly regrease the rack end, fit the new boot without twisting the bellows, and secure with correct clamps.
• Finish with a wheel alignment. Any time the tie-rod end is disturbed, an alignment check is smart to keep the Serena tracking straight and its tyres wearing evenly.

Most shops can sort both boots in around an hour or so plus alignment time. For family-hauler duty around Aussie and Kiwi roads—heat, UV and the odd gravel section—fresh, intact rack-boots are cheap insurance for the Serena’s steering gear.

Popular questions about 2019 Nissan Serena rack-boots

Does a 2019 Nissan Serena actually have rack-boots?
The C27 Serena uses a rack-and-pinion with electric assist, and it does have bellows-type steering rack boots on each side. This is shown in Nissan’s C27 ESM (ST – Steering) and supported by genuine parts listings and aftermarket boot kits.

How often should the rack-boots be replaced?
There’s no fixed kilometre interval. They’re inspected at routine servicing and replaced when perished, cracked or loose. In local conditions, many last years, but sun, heat and road grit can speed up ageing—so eyes-on at each service is the go.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing rack-boots?
Yes—because the outer tie-rod ends are typically removed to slip the new boots on. Even if the locknut is marked, a post-job alignment is recommended to keep steering centred and tyre wear even.