CV Boots & Joints

Constant-velocity joints (CV joints) allow a drive shaft to transmit power through a variable angel, at constant rotational speed, without an appreciable increase in friction or play. CV joints are mainly used in front wheel drive and all wheel drive cars. Rear wheel drive cars also use CV joints at the ends of the rear axle half shafts and prop shafts.

A rubber boot protects CV joints. Cracks and splits in the boot will allow the joint to corrode and a new joint would need to be fitted if the joint is not removed early enough, cleaned, greased, and a new boot fitted.

CV Joints Inspections

CV joints and boots are engineered to last up to about 150,000 miles, but a lot of them fall short of their design life. That’s why Dick Adams technicians always inspect the boots around both the inner and outer CV joints anytime you they under a vehicle for other maintenance or repairs.

Symptoms of CV Boot Failure

• Popping or clicking noise when turning
• A "clunk" when accelerating, decelerating or when putting the transaxle into drive
• A humming or growling noise
• A shudder or vibration when accelerating
• A vibration that increases with speed