CV axles are common on front-wheel-drive, all-wheel-drive, and some four-wheel-drive vehicles, and even ATVs. A CV or constant-velocity joint allows the front wheels to turn while still being driven by the engine or transmission. The method for changing CV axles varies somewhat depending on make, model, and year of the vehicle. There are some common steps and tools to the process. With the proper tools and preparation, it can be a simple one.
Raise the vehicle with a jack so the front wheels are off the ground, and secure it on jack stands. Set the parking brake, and block the rear wheels with wheel chocks or blocks of wood to prevent the car from rolling. This is especially important to this process, as you will be hammering and using a slide hammer or pulling sharply on the axle in later steps. Using a lug wrench, remove the front tire, and set it to the side.
Remove the front brake caliper, and using a bungee cord, secure it up and out of the way. Do not allow the caliper to hang by the brake hose, as this can damage or loosen the hose and cause a leak in the braking system.
Remove the nut in the center of the hub using the large hub socket. On certain four-wheel-drive vehicles or ATVs, you might need a special socket with notches cut into it. Consult your owner's manual for these vehicles. In the case of four-wheel-drives, these sockets can often be borrowed from auto parts stores that have loan-a-tool or tool rental programs. In the case of ATVs, the sockets can be bought from local motorcycle dealers.
Remove the hub itself. The hub is often held in place by two nuts or bolts with cotter pins, usually an upper and a lower one. They are usually attached to the ball joints if your vehicle is equipped with them. If you do not see these bolts, or the attachment of your hub is different, consult your owner's manual for the hub removal method.
Remove the CV axle. This can be done using one of two methods. The first is simply to grab the CV axle in the center, close to the transmission, and pull sharply. Pulling once or twice should dislodge the axle. If the axle does not come free, use a slide hammer. These are also available from loan-a-tool programs if you do not own one. Attach the slide hammer flange to the outer end of the CV axle, and then slide the hammer briskly toward you. One or two pulls with a slide hammer should remove the axle. Slide the old axle free.
Install the new CV axle by pressing the inner joint into the transmission until it seats. You will hear a click, or it will "notch" into place. Tug gently on the axle, ensuring it is properly installed and does not slide out of the transmission. Reassemble the other components in the reverse order they were removed. Use a torque wrench to tighten all fasteners to the manufacturer's specifications. Install new cotter pins wherever old ones were removed.
