Parts for your 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse cross-Rack boots

2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Rack Boots

Rack boots are fitted to the 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. Technical sources that confirm this include the Mitsubishi Motors Eclipse Cross (GK) Service Manual (Group 37 – Steering), which details the steering gear and linkage with bellows-type rack boots, and the Mitsubishi ASA/CAPS electronic parts catalogue that lists left and right steering rack bellows for MY2022 Eclipse Cross. Aftermarket catalogues from OE-equivalent suppliers for 2018–2023 Eclipse Cross models also list rack-and-pinion bellows kits, reinforcing that rack boots are relevant and used on this vehicle.

On the Eclipse Cross, the rack boots (also called steering rack bellows or gaiters) are the accordion-looking rubber sleeves at each end of the rack-and-pinion. Their job is simple but critical: keep dust, water and grit out, and keep the inner tie-rod grease in, while letting the steering move freely. Even though the Eclipse Cross uses electric power steering, it still relies on a rack-and-pinion with inner tie rods, so healthy rack boots are a must.

For Aussie and Kiwi driving—think gravel roads, coastal air, and the odd flooded lane—boots cop a fair bit. UV, ozone and road debris can crack or tear the rubber. Once split, grit gets in and chews out the inner joint or rack bushings, and that can lead to play, toe changes and ugly inner tyre wear. In NZ a torn steering boot is a likely WoF fail, and it’s a roadworthy knock-back in most Australian states too.

Inspection is quick and should be part of every service or at least every 15,000–20,000 kilometres/12 months. Look for splits in the pleats, perished rubber, loose or missing clamps, and any sling of grease on the inner guard. On EPS racks there’s no power-steering fluid to leak at the boot, so grease traces are the giveaway.

If a boot is torn, replace it promptly. Many techs do them in pairs, but at minimum fix the affected side. Use quality EPDM boots and new stainless clamps, recenter the rack, and set the toe by measurement before refitting. The inner tie-rod lock and boot clamps should be secured to factory spec, and a proper wheel alignment is needed afterwards.

• Watch for: visible cracks, grease fling, steering knock, or uneven inner tyre wear.
• Service tips: avoid over-packing grease, keep boots vented as designed, and rinse underbody after beach or flood driving.

Popular questions

Does the 2022 Eclipse Cross have rack boots even with electric power steering?
Yes. Electric power steering changes how assist is provided, not the basic rack-and-pinion layout. The Eclipse Cross still uses bellows-style rack boots to protect the inner tie rods and rack ends from grit and water.

How often should rack boots be checked on an Eclipse Cross?
They’re best checked at every service or at least every 15,000–20,000 km/12 months. Vehicles that see gravel, off-road tracks or coastal environments benefit from more frequent inspections.

Will a rack-boot replacement need a wheel alignment?
Almost always. If the inner or outer tie rod is disturbed to replace the boot, a wheel alignment is necessary to bring toe back to spec and protect the tyres.