Servicing the CV Boot

Changing the CV Boot:

The CV boot is a very common repair but must be taken very seriously when being done.  This repair involves removing the drive shaft and the wheels, so customers safety must be considered.

First, if you can, lift up the car to chest height.  Remove the wheel and then remove the center wheel nut.   (the circlip may need to be removed first.)  Push the drive shaft in then pull it out from the brakes. 

Then remove the nut that holds the nut underneath where the brake disc is.  This will detach the arm from the bottom of the shocks.  If it does not twist off completely, use a large steel bar to lever the arm down and pull the bolt away. 

Pull out the drive shaft then set it on a vice grip.   Cut the clamps with a pair of cutters. Do not grip the clamps tightly with your hands as you may potentially cut yourself.  Afterwards,  cut the rubber boot out and pull it off.  Wipe as much grease off as you can.  While you can, give the CV outer race a wiggle around and test for smoothness.  Inspect the CV for any rust or damaged parts. 

Use a boot stretcher tool to stretch the boot over the driveshaft.  Clamp down the small end then squeeze the supplied grease inside the boot.  Clamp down the other end. Note: you may have to cut the boot to size, simply cut it with a pair of cutters or scissors.

Replacing the CV boot is as simple as reversing these instructions.  Check that you may have to replace the circlips and the lock ring's open end is facing upwards when the driveshaft is inserted into the transmission.

KEEP IN MIND: Working with a lot of grease, keep a rag or two at hand, and make sure that grease does not go anywhere it's not supposed to, eg. the brake rotors.