How to change a CV axle [AUTODOC TUTORIAL]

How to change drive shaft on a car – replacement tutorial

Required Tools:

                        Flat screwdriver
                      
                        Tap wrench
                      
                        Wheel impact socket
                      
                        Impact socket
                      
                        Ceramic grease
                      
                        Jack
                      
                        Circlip pliers

Buy tools

Please note!

A CV axle transmits torque from the differential to the wheels
The location and number of CV axles depends on the drive type: front, rear, or all-wheel drive
It is often necessary to replace a CV axle if the shaft or CV joint is damaged

1.

Secure the wheel with the wheel chocks before getting down to work
2.

Loosen the fastener that attaches the CV axle to the wheel hub

Important!
The CV axle can be attached to the hub with a nut or bolt
3.

To disconnect the outer CV joint from the hub, you may need to disconnect some suspension components and the ball joint, or remove the steering knuckle assembly
4.

The outer CV joint splines usually get stuck to the hub, so it should be knocked out

The inner CV joint can be attached in different ways:
it can be inserted into the differential and secured with a snap ringit can be fastened with bolts to the differential flangeit can be attached to the splined shaft that comes out of the differential and secured with a lock pin
5.

Remove the lock pin and detach the CV axle
6.

Inspect the splined counterpart for damage
7.

Clean it and install a new CV axle
8.

If there is a flange mounting, unscrew the bolts

AUTODOC experts recommend:
Hold the CV axle in place to prevent it from turning
9.

In some cases, it may be necessary to remove the boot to access the fasteners
10.

Unscrew the flange and clean it
11.

Install a new CV axle
12.

Tighten the fasteners to the manufacturer's recommended torque
13.

If the CV axle is inserted in the differential, drain the transmission fluid first

Please note!
In manual gearboxes, the filler cap and drain plug usually look different from the fastenersThe filler cap is located above the drain plug
14.

After draining the oil, clean the plug's mounting seat and screw it in
15.

Use two crowbars to pry out the housing of the inner CV joint

Important!
The splined end of the shaft is held in place by the snap ringBe careful not to damage the gearbox oil seal
16.

Lubricate the surface of the new shaft where it touches the oil seal
17.

When installing the new CV axle, turn it slightly so that it fits into the splined mating part
18.

Make the CV axle snap into place by hitting the back end of it with a mallet
19.

Clean all the mounting seats and secure the outer part of the CV axle
20.

Reassemble all the components that were removed in reverse order
21.

Tighten the fasteners to the manufacturer's recommended torque
22.

Pour in new transmission fluid if it was drained before the replacement

AUTODOC recommends:
The vehicle must be level when carrying out this stepIf the car body is slanted, the fluid level cannot be assessed accuratelyFor manual gearboxes, it is usually the lower edge of the filler opening that is used as the level mark
23.

Tighten and secure the fastener that connects the CV axle to the wheel hub

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