This will hopefully explain better than I can https://www.suspension.com/universal-dust-boots.asp
__________________________________________
View my fuel log 2014 Mirage SE wussie cvt edition. 1.2 automatic: 37.7 mpg (US) ... 16.0 km/L ... 6.2 L/100 km ... 45.3 mpg (Imp)
Unbolting the ball joint and putting the same one back on will not mess up steering geometry. You need to put both front wheels off the ground to do the job.
Looking at the picture of your boot, it seems it just might be a case of "cracked rubber" that still keeps dirt out and grease in. If thats the case, you could spray the crack with brake cleaner to degrease it, and apply a little HT-silicone on the crack to keep it from breaking open beefore you get a new one.
I certainly would try to get a replacement boot, but If you can't find one, get an aftermarket control arm. They are not expensive, but do have front axle geometry checked after replacement.
Yes, just like tire plugs are "temporary".
__________________________________________
View my fuel log 2014 Mirage SE wussie cvt edition. 1.2 automatic: 37.7 mpg (US) ... 16.0 km/L ... 6.2 L/100 km ... 45.3 mpg (Imp)
Bralexander (07-13-2020)
__________________________________________
View my fuel log 2015 Mirage ES 1.2 manual: 49.6 mpg (US) ... 21.1 km/L ... 4.7 L/100 km ... 59.5 mpg (Imp)