Parts for your 2020 Nissan Serena-Rack boots

2020 Nissan Serena rack boots: fitted and worth looking after

Rack-boots are absolutely relevant to the 2020 Nissan Serena. The C27-series Serena uses an electric power–assisted rack-and-pinion steering system, and both the Nissan C27 Serena Service Manual (ST – Steering System) and Nissan’s Electronic Parts Catalogue list “Boot – Steering Gear” (steering rack bellows) for this model range, including S-HYBRID and e-POWER variants. That means the vehicle is fitted with rack-boots from factory and they’re a normal service item.

On the Serena, the rack-boots (also called steering rack gaiters or bellows) sit over the inner tie rods at each end of the steering rack. Their job is to keep dust, water, and road grit away from the rack seals and inner joints, while containing a light film of lubricant. When intact, they help the steering feel consistent and protect pricey components from premature wear.

Because the Serena often does family and shuttle duties, the front end sees a fair bit of stop–start and tight parking. That makes healthy rack-boots important. Tell-tales of trouble include perishing or splits in the rubber, dampness or grease weeping at the boot ends, a faint click on initial steering input, or a WOF/roadworthy note for a damaged or unsecured boot.

• Why replace promptly: a torn boot can let grit in, score the rack bar, chew out inner tie rods, and eventually lead to leaks in the steering gear. That’s a much bigger bill than a pair of boots and clamps.

For servicing, a quick visual at each service interval is smart—ideally every 10,000–15,000 km or 12 months in Aussie and Kiwi conditions, and after deep puddles or gravel-road trips. If one boot is split, doing both sides keeps maintenance even. Choose OE or high-quality neoprene boots with proper stainless clamps rather than cable ties, and make sure the pleats aren’t twisted on refit.

When replacing, the inner tie rod may need to be removed, it’s a straightforward job for a workshop with the right tools. A wheel alignment is recommended afterwards, as the tie rod locknut has to be disturbed. Once fitted, recheck clamp tension after a few hundred kilometres, and keep an eye out for any grease traces that could hint at a loose clamp or nicked boot.

Popular questions about 2020 Nissan Serena rack-boots

How long do rack-boots last on a 2020 Serena?
In normal city and motorway driving, quality rack-boots often last many years. Heat, age, and road debris are the usual culprits, so expect inspection rather than routine replacement—swap them when cracked, perished, or torn.

What happens if a Serena rack-boot splits?
A split lets water and grit reach the inner tie rod and rack seals. That can cause stiffness, noise, or accelerated wear, and in time may damage the steering gear. Replacing a boot early avoids far costlier steering repairs.

Do rack-boots replacement need a wheel alignment?
Yes, it’s best practice. The tie rod locknut is loosened for access, and even careful refitting can nudge toe settings. An alignment keeps tyre wear and steering feel spot on.