How to Check Your Car's CV Boot
If you've had your car for awhile chances are at some point you will have to change or replace the CV boot or joint. Depending on how soon you catch the broken boot can determine how much money you spend on repairs. A torn boot can be replaced for under 200 bucks parts and labor where as a whole CV joint can cost 400 and up.
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Instructions
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Constant Velocity Joints or your CV boot or joints are often attached to the front drive shaft of the car. They are what accommodate for the front wheel suspension in addition to aiding in the transfer of torque to the front wheels.
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The joints are encased by a rubber boot and is packed with grease. Generally the joints are very robust and last a long time. The only problem is that the boot that covers the joints ball bearings tend to tear from time to time leaking out the grease that is used to oil the bearings. Generally when the grease leaks out you will hear a knocking noise when you make a turn. Depending on where the noise radiates will determine what side has the issue.
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As you can see from the image on your left the CV joint has two boots an inner boot and an outer boot. You can visually inspect these by jacking up your car and turning your wheels to the left and right.
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If you can catch this tear early enough you can save yourself a lot of headaches by just replacing the boot. Generally it's safe to check your CV boots at least once every 30000 miles. If you don't you will most likely have to replace the entire axle. In addition if you change one side always at least check the other side to see if it needs repair or replacement.
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Comments
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sunshine11219
Jan 05, 2009
good article well written
