Tips for Replacing a CV Axle

Key Steering & Suspension Part

Essential for a smooth ride, constant velocity (CV) axles allow the vehicle to travel down the road, move over bumps, and turn left and right. If a CV axle is failing, it can adversely affect how your vehicle handles. Replacing a CV axle is a straightforward job that an experienced DIYer can feel confident in tackling. Follow these tips for a successful installation.

General Tips

Tools Needed

Gather the tools required: jack/jack stands, lug wrench, socket, ratchet and extension, torque wrench, CV removal tool/slide hammer, pry bar, mallet/hammer, grease, safety gear.

Ensure New Part Matches Old

Compare the old unit to the new part. Verify that the spline count, compressed length, and inner and outer seal diameters match up.

No Sharp Objects

Don’t use objects that could tear the axle’s boots.

Check for Leaks

Examine seals for leaks or damage. Check fluids and refill any that are low.

Examine ABS Parts

Avoid damaging ABS components when removing the old CV axle and installing the new part. Examine the ABS system to ensure that nothing was damaged.

Lifted Vehicles

Vehicles with altered (lifted) suspension put extra strain on the CV axle joint due to increased operating angle since lifting causes the wheel to be farther away from the differential compared to original factory specification. CV axle warranty will be voided if suspension has been altered (lifted) from OE specification.

Inboard CV Joint Tips

Use CV Removal Tool

When removing the axle, don’t pry or strike it; the circlip could get caught and damage both the axle and transmission splines. It is recommended to use a CV removal tool that attaches to a slide hammer to prevent damage to the splines.

Orienting Circlip

 Center the inboard circlip and orient the clip opening at the 12:00 position. Use a small amount of grease to prevent the ends from rolling over while sliding the axle into the transmission. Don’t use a hammer or excessive force to push the axle into the transmission.

Grease Seal

Apply a light amount of grease to the seal area on the CV axle.

Seating the Axle

Prior to installation, check the inner splines carefully to ensure that there are no metal fragments in the differential. After installing the circlip-type axle into the transmission, check to ensure the axle is properly seated in the transmission by pulling gently on the inboard CV joint housing (don’t pull on the immediate shaft or outboard CV joint housing).

Avoid Letting Axles Hang

During installation, never let CV axles hang from the differential/transaxle at any time. Stress from hanging can damage the inboard joint and boot, resulting in improper axle function.

Determine Source of Damage

If the inner joint of a front CV axle was pulled apart, or has a ripped or stretched inboard boot, check the condition of the motor mount, all suspension parts, carriage/motor/transmission alignment, and look for unibody or frame damage. All of these could be potential causes.

Outboard CV Joint Tips

Use New Axle Nuts

Never reuse prevailing torque type axle nuts. Always use new nuts.

Calibrate Torque Wrench

Always use a calibrated torque wrench to torque spindle nuts to the proper OE specifications. Don’t use power tools to torque the spindle nut as it can damage the threads and outer CV joint.

Handle ABS Sensor Rings with Care

Handle units with ABS sensor rings with care, as the rings can be damaged easily.

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The content in this article is for informational purposes only. You should consult with a certified technician or mechanic if you have questions relating to any of the topics covered herein. Tenneco will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on any content.