1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply the parking brake.
2. Loosen the lug nuts on the affected wheel, but do not remove them completely.
3. Raise the vehicle using a jack and secure it on jack stands.
4. Remove the wheel and tire.
5. Locate the axle nut on the end of the drive axle.
6. Use a wrench to loosen the axle nut, but do not remove it completely.
7. Locate the cotter pin on the spindle nut near the wheel hub assembly.
8. Straighten the cotter pin and remove it.
9. Remove the spindle nut.
10. Slide the brake caliper off the rotor and suspend it out of the way using a zip tie or bungee cord.
11. Use a pry bar or puller to separate the tie rod end from the spindle.
12. Locate the lower ball joint and use a wrench or socket to loosen and remove the retaining nut.
13. Use a ball joint separator to separate the ball joint from the spindle.
14. Position a drain pan under the inner CV joint boot.
15. Use a pry bar or flat-head screwdriver to pry off the inner CV joint boot from the transmission.
16. Grasp the drive axle and pull it out of the transmission.
17. If the drive axle does not come out easily, you may need to use a slide hammer to apply additional force.
18. Once the drive axle is removed, inspect the axle shaft, CV joints, and seals for damage or wear.
Remember to follow the reverse procedure when installing a new drive axle. Also, refer to the vehicle-specific repair manual for additional guidance and safety instructions.
