1. Prepare the Vehicle: Park the vehicle on a level surface, apply the parking brake, and chock the wheels. Turn off the engine and allow it to cool down.
2. Raise the Vehicle: Use a floor jack and jack stands to safely lift the front of the vehicle so that there is enough clearance to remove the CV joint.
3. Remove the Lug Nuts: Loosen the lug nuts on the front tire on the side with the damaged CV joint.
4. Remove the Wheel: Use a lug wrench or impact wrench to remove the lug nuts and then pull the wheel straight toward you to remove it.
5. Locate the CV Joint: Follow the driveshaft from the wheel hub until you find the CV joint. It is usually located at the end of the driveshaft, near the transmission.
6. Remove the Driveshaft Nut: Use a wrench or socket to loosen and remove the nut that secures the driveshaft to the transmission.
7. Separate the Driveshaft: Use a pry bar or CV joint puller to separate the driveshaft from the CV joint. Be careful, as this may require some force.
8. Undo Clamps: Using appropriately sized pliers or a flat head screwdriver, remove the retaining clips that hold the axle in place.
9. Remove CV Axle: Pull the CV axle straight out from the transmission. Be careful not to spill any transmission fluid.
10. Remove the Old CV Joint: Remove the CV joint from the axle shaft by using a hammer to tap it out. Alternatively, you can use a CV joint puller tool.
11. Install the New CV Joint: Apply a thin coat of grease to the new CV joint and insert it into the axle shaft. Use a hammer to gently tap it in until it is seated properly.
12. Reattach CV Axle: Reinsert the other end of the drive axle back into the transmission and secure it using the retaining clips.
13. Reattach Driveshaft: Reinstall the driveshaft and secure it using the driveshaft nut. Tighten the nut securely.
14. Refill Transmission Fluid: If any transmission fluid was lost during the process, you may need to refill it. Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for the correct type of fluid and amount required.
15. Reinstall the Wheel: Place the wheel back onto the hub and tighten the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle.
16. Test Drive the Vehicle: Take your Saturn SL for a short test drive to ensure the CV joint is working properly and that there are no abnormal sounds or vibrations.
Note: It is important to follow the steps carefully to ensure proper and safe installation of the CV joint. If you are not comfortable performing this task yourself, it is best to consult with a qualified mechanic to ensure the job is done correctly.
