Replace the outer CV boot on the drive axle to prevent contamination and further damage to the CV joint.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Outer CV boot kit (includes boot, clamps, and grease) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Axle nut (if staked type) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Cotter pin (if applicable) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Loosen wheel lug nuts on the affected side with vehicle on ground
4. Break loose the axle nut with a 32mm socket and breaker bar while vehicle is on ground (have an assistant apply brakes or leave in gear)
5. Raise vehicle with floor jack and support securely on jack stands at proper lift points
6. Remove wheel completely

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove axle nut
   Remove the previously loosened 32mm axle nut completely. If the nut is staked, use a punch to unstake it first. Remove and discard the cotter pin if equipped. Set aside the nut (replace if staked type).
2. 2

   Separate outer CV joint from hub
   Push the axle shaft inward through the hub bearing to disengage the splines. If stuck, tap gently on the end of the axle with a brass drift. Do not strike the threads directly. The outer CV joint should now be separated from the wheel hub.
3. 3

   Support the drive axle
   Position a suitable support (jack stand or wire) under the outer portion of the drive axle to prevent it from hanging by the inner CV joint. Ensure the axle is supported at a natural angle without binding.
4. 4

   Remove old boot clamps
   Locate the two clamps on the outer CV boot (one at the joint end, one at the axle shaft end). Use wire cutters to cut and remove both clamps. Slide the old boot away from the CV joint toward the center of the axle.
5. 5

   Clean the CV joint
   Wipe away all old grease from the outer CV joint, joint housing, and axle shaft using shop rags. Inspect the CV joint for wear, cracks, or damaged ball bearings. Check for smooth rotation and minimal play. Clean the areas where the new boot will seat using brake parts cleaner.
   ℹ️If the CV joint shows signs of damage, clicking, or excessive play, the entire axle assembly should be replaced rather than just the boot.
6. 6

   Remove old boot completely
   Slide the old outer CV boot completely off the axle shaft. Note the orientation and positioning for the new boot installation.
7. 7

   Install new boot and clamps
   Slide the new outer CV boot onto the axle shaft from the center toward the outer joint. Position the small end of the boot on the axle shaft in the groove provided. Install the small clamp loosely. Do not tighten yet.
8. 8

   Pack CV joint with grease
   Apply approximately half of the grease provided in the boot kit into the CV joint housing, working it between the ball bearings and cage. Apply the remaining grease inside the boot cavity. Ensure thorough coverage of all moving parts.
9. 9

   Seat boot and install large clamp
   Slide the large end of the boot over the CV joint housing and seat it in the groove on the joint. Ensure the boot is not twisted or stretched. Install the large clamp loosely over the boot on the joint housing.
10. 10

    Equalize boot pressure and secure clamps
    Insert a small flat tool between the boot and CV joint housing to equalize air pressure inside the boot (prevents boot ballooning or collapsing). Remove tool and tighten both clamps using CV boot clamp pliers or banding tool per the tool manufacturer's instructions. Verify clamps are secure and boot is properly seated.
11. 11

    Reinstall axle into hub
    Remove the axle support. Align the outer CV joint splines with the hub bearing and push the axle through until fully seated. Ensure the splines engage completely.
12. 12

    Install and torque axle nut
    Thread the axle nut (new if staked type) onto the axle by hand. Have an assistant apply the brakes or use a pry bar against the rotor to prevent rotation. Torque the axle nut to specification. If staked type, stake the nut collar into the axle groove using a punch. If cotter pin type, install a new cotter pin and bend ends properly.
    ⚠Do not reuse a staked axle nut. Always use a new nut and properly stake it to prevent loosening.
    Torque spec

    Axle Nut250 Nm (184 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Reinstall wheel
    Mount the wheel and thread lug nuts by hand. Lower the vehicle until the tire just contacts the ground to prevent rotation. Torque the lug nuts to specification in a star pattern.
    Torque spec

    Wheel Lug Nuts140 Nm (103 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify the axle nut is properly torqued and staked or pinned
2. Check that all tools and parts have been removed from the work area
3. Lower vehicle completely and remove jack stands
4. Perform final torque check on wheel lug nuts with vehicle on ground

Verification

• Start the engine and turn the steering wheel full lock in both directions while stationary to check for binding or interference
• Test drive the vehicle at low speed, making turns in both directions to verify smooth operation
• Listen for clicking or popping noises from the CV joint during turns (indicates possible joint damage)
• Inspect the new boot after test drive for proper seating, secure clamps, and no signs of grease leakage
• Verify no vibration or unusual noises from the drive axle during acceleration

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