---
title: If a shock absorber or steering damper is not supplied with a dust boot, is one required for proper operation?
description: No, if a Bilstein shock or steering damper does not come with a shock boot, it does not necessarily need one.
---

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# If a shock absorber or steering damper is not supplied with a dust boot, is one required for proper operation?

## No, if a Bilstein shock or steering damper does not come with a shock boot, it does not necessarily need one.

No, if a Bilstein shock or steering damper does not come with a shock boot, it does not necessarily need one. These shocks are designed with a hardened chrome shaft and a 3-lip wiper seal, allowing them to handle dirt, mud, and off-road debris without the need for a boot. If the shock or steering damper doesn't come with a preinstalled boot, adding a boot can trap moisture and debris against the shock rod, potentially causing corrosion or premature wear.

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