Parts for your 2023 Mitsubishi Asx-Rack boots

2023 Mitsubishi ASX rack-boots: what they do and when to sort them

Yes, the 2023 Mitsubishi ASX uses rack-boots. Technical references such as the Mitsubishi Motors workshop manual for the GA-series ASX/RVR/Outlander Sport (Steering section, covering MY2020–MY2023) and OEM parts catalogues list the steering gear bellows (rack boots) on both ends of the rack-and-pinion unit. That means rack-boots are absolutely relevant to this model.

On the 2023 ASX, the rack-boots (also called bellows or gaiters) sit over the inner tie rods at each side of the steering rack. Their job is simple but critical: they keep dust, water, and road grit out of the rack, while holding the right amount of grease inside so everything moves freely. Because the ASX runs an electric power steering (EPS) rack, there’s no hydraulic fluid to leak from the system, but a split boot can still let in grime that chews out the rack and inner tie rods, leading to sloppy steering, uneven tyre wear, and a likely WOF/RWC fail.

As part of servicing of your 2023-mitsubishi-asx rack-boots, it’s smart to have them inspected at each routine service (about every 12 months or 15,000 km, whichever comes first). A quick look will pick up perished rubber, small tears, loose clamps, or signs of grease escaping. If there’s moisture or oil around the boot, remember the ASX’s EPS doesn’t use power-steering fluid—so wetness is usually road splash, nearby engine/trans leaks, or grease pushed out from a damaged boot.

Replacement isn’t a big drama, but it does need care. The outer tie-rod end is removed, the old boot and clamps come off, and a quality replacement boot is slid on with new clamps. It’s best practice to book a wheel alignment afterwards—marking threads helps, but precise toe can drift. Use decent clamps (not cable ties), avoid twisting the bellows, and keep the boot seated so it compresses and expands smoothly through the steering range.

Driving on gravel, corrugations, or through standing water? Add more frequent visual checks to the list. If a boot is torn, don’t leave it for “later”—the cost of two new boots and an alignment is far cheaper than a worn steering rack. Go OEM or a reputable aftermarket option made from heat- and ozone-resistant material for Aussie and Kiwi conditions.

• Signs it’s time: cracks, splits, missing clamps, grease flicked on the subframe, or new play/noise when steering.
• After replacement: check alignment, torque tie-rod hardware to spec, and recheck clamp security after a few hundred kays.

Popular questions about 2023 Mitsubishi ASX rack-boots

How often should rack-boots be checked on a 2023 ASX?
They should be inspected at every scheduled service—about every 12 months or 15,000 km in Australia and New Zealand. If the vehicle sees gravel roads, floods, or regular construction sites, add quick visual checks between services.

Early detection of small cracks or loosened clamps avoids grit getting in and saves the steering rack and inner tie rods from premature wear.

Can you drive with a split rack-boot?
It’s not ideal. A short trip to a workshop is usually fine, but ongoing driving risks contamination that can wreck the rack and inner tie rods. You may also fail a WOF/RWC with a torn boot.

Get it replaced promptly and do a wheel alignment afterwards for best tyre life and steering feel.

Does the ASX’s EPS rack leak power-steering fluid into the boots?
No. The 2023 ASX uses electric power steering, so there’s no hydraulic fluid in the rack. If a boot looks wet, it’s typically grease, road water, or oil from a nearby engine/trans leak.

If there’s persistent wetness or dirt stuck to grease, have it checked—there may be a split boot or another source of contamination.