ASE G1 Auto Maintenance and Light RepairSuspension and SteeringMedium
A technician is inspecting a front-wheel-drive vehicle and notices that the CV joint boots on both front axles are torn and leaking grease. The customer reports hearing a 'clicking' or 'popping' noise during turns. Which of the following is the most appropriate repair action?
- AReplace only the torn CV joint boots
- BReplace the entire CV axle assemblies
- CLubricate the steering linkage components
- DRepack the CV joints with grease and replace the boots
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Replace the entire CV axle assemblies
When CV joint boots are torn and the customer reports clicking/popping noises during turns, it indicates that dirt and moisture have likely entered the joint, causing wear and damage to the internal components. At this stage, simply replacing the boots or repacking the grease is insufficient, as the damage is already done. The most appropriate and reliable repair is to replace the entire CV axle assembly.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Replacing only the boots would not address the internal damage already caused by contamination and lack of lubrication.
- C. Lubricating steering linkage components would not address CV joint issues or the associated noises.
- D. Repacking grease and replacing boots is only effective if the boots are caught early, before the joint starts making noise or showing signs of wear.
CV Joint Noise Repair
If CV joint boots are torn AND the joint is making clicking/popping noises, it indicates internal damage requiring replacement of the entire CV axle assembly.
- Torn boot allows contamination.
- Clicking/popping signals internal wear.
- Axle replacement is the recommended repair.
Memory trick: Boot's Torn, Click's Heard, Axle's Gone, No Other Word.