Tools and Materials Needed:
- Socket set
- Wrenches
- Pliers
- Pry bar
- CV joint puller
- CV joint boot kit (optional, if replacing the boot)
- New CV joint and axle assembly
- Jack
- Jack stands
Step 1: Prepare your car:
- Park your car on level ground, set the parking brake, and chock the wheels.
- Engage the transmission into Park (P) for an automatic transmission or first gear for a manual transmission.
- Jack up the front of the car and support it on jack stands.
Step 2: Remove the wheel:
- Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
Step 3: Remove the brake caliper and rotor:
- Unbolt the brake caliper and remove it from the rotor.
- Hang the caliper out of the way with a piece of wire.
- Remove the rotor by sliding it off the wheel hub.
Step 4: Remove the axle nut:
- Use a socket wrench to loosen the axle nut, but do not remove it completely.
Step 5: Remove the tie rod end:
- Use a wrench to loosen the tie rod end nut and remove it.
- Separate the tie rod end from the steering knuckle by using a pry bar.
Step 6: Remove the ball joint:
- Use a wrench to loosen the ball joint nut and remove it.
- Use the pry bar to separate the ball joint from the steering knuckle.
Step 7: Remove the axle assembly:
- Completely remove the axle nut.
- Use the CV joint puller to separate the CV joint from the transmission and the suspension.
- Slide the axle assembly out of the hub.
Step 8: Replace the CV joint:
- If you are replacing the CV joint, remove the old CV joint from the axle.
- Insert the new CV joint into the axle and secure it with a circlip.
Step 9: Install the axle assembly:
- Slide the axle assembly back into the hub.
- Reattach the CV joint to the transmission and suspension using the CV joint puller.
Step 10: Attach the ball joint and tie rod end:
- Reattach the ball joint and secure it with the nut.
- Reattach the tie rod end and secure it with the nut.
Step 11: Reinstall the brake rotor and caliper:
- Slide the brake rotor onto the wheel hub.
- Reattach the brake caliper and secure it with the bolts.
Step 12: Reinstall the wheel:
- Put the wheel back on and secure it with the lug nuts.
Step 13: Lower the car:
- Use the jack to lower the car off the jack stands.
Step 14: Test drive:
- Take the car for a short test drive to ensure that the CV joint is working properly.
These are the general steps involved in replacing a CV joint on a 2000 Subaru Outback. Keep in mind that this process can be complex and time-consuming, and it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic if you are unsure or uncomfortable about any of the steps involved.
