Cv Boot Broken??

[MadSpleen85]

Ok I dont really know for sure if this is the CV Boot or not... I do know, whatever it is, it has a split on the bottom end of it and there is grease all over on the brake lines. I posted a few pics, and I want you guys to let me know for sure what it is so that I dont sound like a complete idiot when I take it to my mechanic in the morning. Thanks and Let me know.. Later

[cp[mike]]

the axle is jointed in 2 places, theres pegs with bearings and such inside of the thick ends of the axle. they allow the axle to be at an angle and the wheels to turn while still providing full rotational power. these are called the CV (meaning Constant Velocity) joints... they are encased in grease, sealed in by that rubber boot. yes, thats your cv boot, it split open and flung the grease everywhere. the problem with that is that the bearings in the joint will dry out and get dirt in them, thats when you start hearing clicking when you turn. they will eventually fail.

since axles are so cheap ($50-60) people generally just throw in a whole new remanufactured axle instead of just replacing the boot, so thats probably what your mechanic is going to do, shouldnt take more than a couple hours of labor.

[MadSpleen85]

Sounds good thanks Mike. I have had this happen before but I just happened to be changing the tires today and saw it for myself.. The last time it happened it was on the passengers side and I didnt catch it but my mechanic did when he was replacing my brake rotors. Thanks again. Later

[WilliamW]

agreed. I konw for a fact that autozone sells what you need for around 55 bucks each. It's not real expensive but it dose require some work on your half to get the job done for as cheap as possible.