Parts for your 2025 Mitsubishi Eclipse cross-Rack boots

2025 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Rack Boots

Rack boots are used on the 2025 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. The model runs an electric rack-and-pinion steering gear that uses bellows-style boots on each side of the rack to protect the inner tie rods and seals. This is documented in Mitsubishi Motors’ Service Manual for the Eclipse Cross (GN series, Group 37A – Power Steering), which includes procedures for inspecting “steering gear bellows/boots”, and in the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue that lists “steering gear boot, L/R” and corresponding clamps for GN0W variants. Major aftermarket catalogues for Australia and New Zealand also list compatible steering rack boots for all Eclipse Cross years, including MY2025.

On the Eclipse Cross, the rack boots (sometimes called bellows or gaiters) are there to keep grit, water and mud away from the inner tie rod joints and the rack’s oil seals, and to hold the correct grease where it belongs. They also help the electric power steering maintain a consistent feel by keeping contamination out of the working parts.

Given Aussie and Kiwi conditions—red dust, corrugations, coastal salt and the odd water crossing—these boots do a lot of heavy lifting. A small split can let in silt and moisture that quickly chews out the inner joints, leading to play in the steering, noisy operation, and premature wear of tyres and rack seals.

Best practice is to inspect the rack boots at every service (or at least every 10,000–15,000 kilometres). Turn the wheels from lock to lock, look for cracks at the concertina folds, oil or grease spray, missing or loose clamps, and boots that look collapsed (blocked breathers) or ballooned (pressure trapped). Wipe them clean with mild detergent only—harsh solvents can damage the rubber. If a boot is torn, replace it straight away to avoid water ingress, it’s smart to do both sides if age is the cause. Use quality OEM-spec boots and proper band clamps rather than cable ties. During replacement, check inner tie rod play, mark the tie rod end position, and tighten to factory specs. After any steering work, book a wheel alignment, and if the steering angle sensor needs it, have the calibration performed. While under the bonnet and underneath, it’s worth a quick look at rack mounts and outer tie rod ends too.

• Tell-tales of trouble: fresh grease on the subframe, a light knock over bumps, heavier or notchy steering, uneven tyre wear, or water/milkiness inside the boot.

How often should the rack boots be inspected on a 2025 Eclipse Cross?

They should be checked at every regular service interval or at least every 10,000–15,000 kilometres. If the vehicle sees gravel roads, beach work, or frequent rain and puddles, have a look more often. A quick torch check with the wheels turned full lock both ways is usually enough to spot issues early.

Can you keep driving with a split rack boot?

It’s not recommended. A torn boot lets in water and abrasive grit that can rapidly wear the inner tie rod and rack seals. That can turn an inexpensive boot job into a costly steering rack repair. If a split is found, replace the boot as soon as practical and have the alignment checked afterwards.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing rack boots?

Yes, plan on an alignment. Even when the tie rod end is measured and refitted carefully, small changes can shift toe. An alignment protects tyre life and ensures the Eclipse Cross tracks straight. If any steering components are replaced, ask the workshop to perform a steering angle sensor calibration if required.