Called a rack and pinion dust boot, held in place by a crimp like circle ring, Joe Weak must have crimped yours. While rack and pinion does have some blessings, these boots have been a PITA over the years. Ran into some vehicles, couldn't even buy a new boot, wanted me to replace the entire rack with new boots for $$$$$.
Easy to replace, can just pop off the tie rod end, no need to take it off that would affect wheel alignment. Work the old boot off and work the new boot on over the tie rod end.
What really kills these things in a hurry is having engine oil drop on them, but with any piece of rubber, dry up and age the the environment take over. Far worse with hydraulic power steering, road debris gets into the fluid and can really mess things up, good question with electric power steering. Spraying them with silicone does help to extend their life.
I see boots are available for the Cruze, got me curious.
$40.00 a piece sounds kind of stiff, use to be a five buck part, but trying to get use to this. But at least you can replace these rather than replace the entire rack. Also help to coat that collar they fit on with RTV for a better seal, but they don't do this. Also helps them stay on. Those collars have to be cleaned first. Key reason like I like doing these jobs myself, last a lot longer.
Hmmm, looking at this drawing the tie rod end would have to be removed first, and the toe in should be realigned. 80 bucks to loosen that nut and rotate that link a tad?