The tear in the boot is pretty big and all the grease is spattered all over the hub. I don't know how long it has been in this condition, but at least for a couple weeks, since the rip is fairly big. I know it needs to be replaced but, is it safe to drive at all?
2007-09-05 11:51:33 · 4 answers · asked by jetrx_1011 3 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Other - Cars & Transportation
Some auto parts stores sell temporary boots that can be uses. These boots basically attach on the shaft and hold grease around the joint and can be slipped on (they are called a CV split-boot). They can last a while until you can get it properly fixed and cost about $30. Driving without grease on the CV joint can easily allow them to break, then you'd be stuck because once the joint breaks, you won't have any ability to move at all.
Best thing to do is to get the boot fixed properly, but if you need a short term fix, these split boots can help.
See Link below http://www.autozone.com/az/cds/en_us/0900823d/80/04/a0/64/0900823d8004a064/repairInfoPages.htm
2007-09-05 11:58:53 · answer #1 · answered by hsueh010 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Unless it is rattling about and loose, it is safe to drive, but you will have to replace more than the boot if dirt is in the actual joint. Don't put it off too long. You will have to replace the cv joint, which comes with a new boot. When I found a damaged boot had let dirt in, I just replaced the axle. That way I had new axle, 2 new joints and boots, and warranty on the whole thing, and it wasn't that much more expensive than one joint.
One joint was about $120.00 parts and labour for my car, the axle with 2 new joints was just under $200.00.
2007-09-05 19:41:42 · answer #2 · answered by Fred C 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
you should fix it right away they are cheap only around $100. However if for some reason you cant the at least replace the boot. this will prevent any other contaminants from getting in there. You should be able to get a boot for about $6 the more contaminates that get in there the shorter life your CV joint will have. If the joint brakes it will leave you stranded. You will hear the joint squeal and make nasty noises as the damage progresses. Please fix this ASAP
2007-09-05 19:00:56 · answer #3 · answered by alex j 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
it's ok to drive it shood last you like six months but it shood be replace it's cheaper to replace the whole axle than just the cv boot if it starts to make a screeching sound then it's time to fix it
2007-09-05 18:58:29 · answer #4 · answered by altima 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋