How to Check the Constant Velocity Boots (CV Boots) on Your Car

Last Updated: March 29, 2019

Found in all front-wheel-drive and many rear-wheel-drive cars, constant velocity joints (CV joints) transfer torque from the Drive shaft to the wheels and permit the vehicle suspension system to move up and down without the passengers noticing each bump. CV joints are protected by plastic or rubber boots that hold in the grease the joints are packed in. If the boot fails, dirt and moisture displace the grease, impairing the joint. Inspecting the CV boots at the first sign of trouble can help save the CV joints and money in repairs.

Steps

1
Park the car on a level surface. This isn't for the sake of the CV boots or joints, but for your own safety.
2
Slide under the front of the car as far as possible. To make getting under the car easier, lie on a car creeper, a wooden or plastic board on casters.

Advertisement
3
Locate the drive axles. These shafts connect the wheels to the car's transmission.
4
Look for the plastic or rubber boots at each end of each axle. These are the constant velocity boots, or CV boots. There are four in all.
5
Inspect the CV boots for signs of wear or damage. Cracks, rips, tears, splits or punctures all will permit the packing grease to leak out, while also letting dirt and moisture in. Also look for loose or missing clamps.
6
Feel the boots for leaking grease. If you detect grease, rub it between your fingers. If the grease feels gritty, it has been contaminated with dirt, and so has the CV joint. The joint itself needs to be inspected, cleaned and repacked with fresh grease; this is usually best handled by a mechanic.

Advertisement

Community Q&A

Question

How do I inspect a universal joint?

Community Answer

If you make a u-turn and hear a clunking sound, that is the classic symptom. To make a better test, you would need to find a place where you could simulate a u-turn in the opposite direction. A quick inspection can reveal a cracked or torn boot. Once that happens, the grease comes out, and the CV joint soon starts having problems. If you catch it early, sometimes changing the rubber boot and putting back the grease will solve the problem.

Warnings

Damaged CV boots should be replaced promptly, as the CV joint can be ruined in just a few days, particularly in wet weather. However, if you hear a popping, clicking, humming or growling before you find the CV boot has been damaged, the joint is already ruined and needs to be replaced along with the boot.

Thanks!
Helpful 9 Not Helpful 4