Dust boots not covering rods

2005 PONTIAC VIBE
230,250 MILES • 1.8L • 4 CYL • AUTOMATIC
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05GOODVIBESONLY
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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.
Mar 22, 2020 at 9:13 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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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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Mar 22, 2020 at 9:22 PM
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05GOODVIBESONLY
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I'm thinking #7. It seems to be compressed down and not fully covering the rod which i think would be #4.
Mar 22, 2020 at 10:32 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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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
Mar 23, 2020 at 7:54 AM