Preparation:
- Park your car on a level surface, apply the parking brake, and engage the wheel chocks.
- Gather your tools and replacement CV joint/axle assembly (check for compatibility).
- Ensure you have the right size wrenches, socket set, breaker bar, pry bar, and jack stands.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel where the damaged CV joint is located, but don’t remove them yet.
Step 1: Raise the Vehicle
- Use a floor jack to raise the vehicle until the wheel with the faulty CV joint is off the ground.
- Securely place jack stands beneath the vehicle to support its weight.
Step 2: Remove the Wheel
- Use the wrench/socket wrench to remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
Step 3: Disconnect the Tie Rod End
- Use an appropriate wrench or socket to loosen and remove the nuts/bolts holding the tie rod end to the steering knuckle.
- Gently pry the tie rod end loose using the pry bar if needed.
Step 4: Disconnect the Lower Ball Joint
- Find and remove the bolts securing the lower ball joint to the control arm.
- You might need to use the pry bar to separate the ball joint from the control arm.
Step 5: Remove the Axle Nut
- Locate and remove the axle nut found at the center of the wheel hub.
- You may need to use the breaker bar if it’s stubborn.
Step 6: Swing the Steering Knuckle
- Swing the steering knuckle out, creating room for the CV joint removal.
Step 7: Pry and Remove the CV Joint
- While the steering knuckle is out of the way, gently pry the damaged CV joint/axle assembly out from the transmission using the pry bar.
Step 8: Install the New CV Joint/Axle
- Slide the replacement CV joint/axle assembly into place, aligning it with the transmission and wheel hub.
- Push it in as far as it will go.
Step 9: Secure the CV Joint/Axle
- Put the axle nut back on loosely.
- Reattach and secure the tie rod end and lower ball joint.
Step 10: Lower the Vehicle
- Lower the vehicle, removing the jack stands.
Step 11: Tighten Axle Nut and Wheel
- Tighten the axle nut and lug nuts to their specified torques.
Step 12: Test the Vehicle
- Take the car for a test drive to check that everything is working properly.
Remember, this guide is general and variations might exist specific to your vehicle. Always consult the manufacturer’s service manual or a professional mechanic if you have any doubts or difficulties during the process.
