How to Diagnose CV Joints Failure and Repair Options

The CV joint in the cars are inspected during your annual inspection and is one of the most important functioning part of your car. If there is damage to the boot that protects the CV joint and Ranger Razor Axles, it is only a matter of time before dirt and contamination attract enter the boot and the CV joint becomes damaged as it dries out as the lubrication provided by the boot grease is insufficient.I've heard people say to replace the CV half shaft and others say CV joint. What's the difference?There are couple of options depending on the severity of the damage to the outer CV joint. The CV half shaft has the outer CV joint on one side and the inner CV joint on the other side which attaches to your transmission system. The inner joint rarely fails in comparison to the outer. Therefore most of the repairs are done for the outter CV joint and boot, without having to replace the entire CV shaft which leave you about $300 dollars poor for a original factory part.

What are my options for repair if I have symptoms of CV joint damage?

You have the option of replacing the entire CV axle half shaft or repair the boot along with the outter CV joint if necessary.. Outter CV joint and kit costs about hundred of dollars few of companies like American CV Store offers and involved the same procedure as when changing the CV boot alone as the joint has to be detached in both cases. If there is only a CV boot damage with no signs of failure, replace only the CV boot which will only cost $20 for the kit.

Checking CV joint failure

Get in your car and pull down both windows. As you make turns listen for loud clicking sounds from either side which will indicate a failing CV joint.

So what are the repercussions of driving with a failed CV joint?

When the CV joint fails, it will only be a matter of time before the ball joints break loose and the CV shaft will fall loose, resulting in the wheels failing to move. But why take a chance at being stranded in the middle of the highway when you can have it fixed in no time.