Tools and materials needed:
- Socket set
- Extension
- Universal joint
- Pry bar
- Hammer
- New CV joint
Step 1: Loosen the Lug Nuts:
- Park your Corsica on level ground.
- Slightly loosen (do not remove) the lug nuts on the wheel covering the CV joint you'll be replacing.
Step 2: Raise and Support the Vehicle:
- Use a jack and jack stands to safely lift the front end of your Corsica until the tire with the CV joint you're working on is off the ground.
Step 3: Remove the Wheel and Tire:
- Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
Step 4: Remove the Axle Nut:
- Locate the axle nut in the center of the wheel hub; it may be covered with a dust cap that needs to be pried off.
- Use the breaker bar and socket to loosen and remove the axle nut, but don’t completely take it off yet.
Step 5: Disconnect the Lower Ball Joint:
- Use the appropriate wrench to loosen the ball joint nut connecting the lower ball joint to the steering knuckle.
- Pry the lower ball joint out of its socket in the steering knuckle. You may have to use a pry bar to do this.
Step 6: Separate the Steering Knuckle:
- The steering knuckle and the wheel hub should now be separated from the steering assembly.
Step 7: Remove the Axle Nut:
- Now you can completely remove the axle nut.
Step 8: Pull Out the CV Joint:
- Grip the CV joint with pliers or a pry bar and pull it straight out of the transaxle.
Step 9: Inspect and Replace:
- Inspect the CV joint for damage such as torn boots, worn bearings, and damaged splines. If any issues are found, replace the CV joint with a new one.
Step 10: Reassemble:
- Insert the new or repaired CV joint into the transaxle.
- Replace the axle nut and tighten it as much as possible by hand.
- Reattach the steering knuckle to the wheel hub and secure the ball joint nut.
- Reinstall the wheel and tire, and lower your Cobalt.
- Tighten the lug nuts securely.
Once everything is reassembled, you can remove the jack stands, lower the car, and tighten the lug nuts fully. Your Corsica's CV joint should now be replaced. Test drive the vehicle to ensure that the CV joint is functioning properly before normal use.
