Constant velocity axles, or CV axles, are the components that transfer power from the transmission to the wheels, allowing the vehicle to move forward.
Torn
CV boots are a common reason for a car failing the MOT test, according to the MOT history check. Grease dripping within
the wheels, vibrations felt around the CV axle, and clicking noises during
turns are all common symptoms of torn or damaged CV boots.
This
flexible joint is protected by a rubber boot known as the CV Boot. This boot is
merely a dust cover for the CV joint, designed to keep dust and grime out while
keeping the grease that lubricates the joint in.
When
a CV axle boot fails, it exposes the CV joint to contaminants, which can cause
damage.
Check MOT expiration date for your
car and have the damaged CV boot replaced beforehand.
A
bad CV boot usually causes a few symptoms that alert the driver that something
needs to be done. The following are 3 torn cv boot symptoms:
1. Leaking Grease - A grease
leak is the most prevalent symptom of a defective or failing CV boot. A CV boot
can become dry or brittle over time due to exposure to the environment,
cracking or tearing. When a CV boot fractures or splits, grease leaks into the
wheel. As the CV axle rotates, grease is frequently thrown onto the chassis or
other parts on the vehicle's underbelly. A ripped boot can also let dirt,
debris, and moisture into the CV joint, causing damage. If you go online and check MOT history of your car, you will see
that a torn CV boot will clearly be stated as a failure by the MOT tester.
2. Vibrations From the CV Axle
- Vibrations from the CV axle is another sign of a faulty CV boot. The
vibrations could be caused by moisture or debris entering the CV joint, causing
damage. A vibrating CV axle will almost always need to be replaced.
3. Clicking Noises - Clicking
sounds from the axle during turns are another more significant indicator of a
potentially torn CV boot. This is a sign that the CV joint has gotten slack
enough to develop play, causing it to click during turns. Because most CV
joints are not serviceable, a clicking CV joint will need to be replaced.
As
mentioned above, on a MOT history a torn CV boot will clearly be stated by the
MOT tester as a failed MOT item.
CV
boots have a simple but crucial function: they keep the CV axles and joints
clean and extend their service life. If you observe or believe that your CV
boot is damaged, have a professional technician evaluate the vehicle, such as
one from a qualified mechanic, to see if a CV boot replacement is necessary, or
if the entire CV joint needs to be replaced.
Completing a CV Boot Replacement
It
is safe to drive a car with a damaged or torn CV boot, but this will
almost certainly result in additional damage that will necessitate more
expensive repair. If a slight rip in a CV boot is discovered early on, it may
only require a modest repair of changing the boot and applying fresh grease
rather than more extensive surgery. If a boot is torn, many repair shops may
recommend replacing the entire axle since there may be invisible damage to the
CV joints, axle shafts, and other parts that could cause other issues.
Inner
boots are more prone to rips than outer boots (the ones nearest to the wheel).
Grease stains under the front axle or grease sprayed on or around the
inward-facing side of a wheel are signs of a torn boot. A clicking or popping
sounds when turning or vibrations at highway speeds are both signs that a CV
joint or axle has been damaged.
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