Dust boots not covering rods

05GOODVIBESONLY

MEMBER
2005 PONTIAC VIBE
1.8L
4 CYL
AUTOMATIC
230,250 MILES

So just recently my ride has been really rough and there's been a knocking on the front left side when hitting rough parts of road. I discovered the rubber boot of my outer tie rod was shredding itself up pretty good and will be replacing that as soon as the part comes in. While my tire was off I noticed that the dust boots of my front suspension assembly were not covering the rods. I didn't think that looked right. I tried pressing and pulling them and they are not giving any play at all.

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,192 POSTS

Hi,

I attached a picture of an exploded view of the front suspension (front wheel drive). Tell me which part you are referring to. Also, if you don't see it, are you referring to a CV joint boot or rack and pinion boot (where the inner tie rod enters the rack)?

Let me know.

Joe

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Sunday, March 22nd, 2020 AT 9:22 PM

05GOODVIBESONLY

MEMBER
11 POSTS

I'm thinking #7. It seems to be compressed down and not fully covering the rod which I think would be #4.

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Sunday, March 22nd, 2020 AT 10:32 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,192 POSTS

Okay, that's a dust cover for the strut. Honestly, I would't be too concerned about that. After a few years and some miles, they all do that.

The dust cover you mentioned is covering the strut rod (which is a shock). It should be fine.

Please feel free to let me know if you have questions or concerns.

Take care of yourself.
Joe

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Monday, March 23rd, 2020 AT 7:54 AM