CVJoint & CVShaft

What are CV joints and CV shafts?

CV joints and CV shafts (also known as driveshafts or half shafts) are parts of the transmission system. They are responsible for transferring the power output from the gearbox to the driven wheels. The CV shafts generally come with the CV joints already installed. The CV joints are part of the driveshaft that allow it to articulate so that the shaft can rotate while being subject to steering and suspension changes.

What comes with a CV joint or CV shaft?

CV shafts come with the inner and outer CV joints already attached along with the CV boots. What comes with a CV joint is largely down to the brand. Brands such as Febi and Blue Print provide only the parts as shown in the image however brands such as First Line and Borg and Beck include the boot, clips and grease even though the image may only show a CV joint. If the image shows specific parts then these parts are included.

To replace a CV joint you would need:

• CV joint

• CV boot (also called a bellow)

• CV boot clips

• Grease

How do I choose the correct CV joint or CV shaft?

Choosing the correct joint or shaft is hugely important as the incorrect part can be missing important safety components. It is unlikely that the incorrect joints or shafts would fit due to the precise design of the parts and to find that out at the time of fitting would be frustrating. Here are some factors that can affect compatibility:

• Number of gears (i.e. 5 speed or 6 speed etc)

• Manual or semi automatic (fully automatic and CVT vehicles do not have a clutch

• Transmission type / transmission code

• With or without ABS or traction control

• The number of teeth on the inner and outer of the joint

• The number of teeth on either end of the CV shaft

• Vehicle manufacture date (this is not the date the vehicle was registered but the date it was made

• Engine number sequence (up to or after as specific number/letter

• VIN (chassis number) sequence (up to or after as specific number/letter

What brand of CV joints and CV shafts should I choose?

There are significantly fewer brands that manufacture CV joints and CV shafts compared to other car parts so the choice of brands is much smaller. Due to how these parts are manufactured it is difficult to recommend one brand over another in terms of quality. In many cases it will be the limited availability of these parts the dictate which brand you choose. Many of these parts are remanufactured to ‘as new’ condition with the internal parts replaced with new components. Remanufactured parts normally carry the same warranty cover as new parts so there is peace of mind with regards to quality.

How can I tell if my CV joints and CV shafts need replacing?

In the event a catastrophic failure of a CV joint or CV shaft the broken part will be visibly damaged or may be hanging down from its usual position. If you are not sure we would always recommend that you have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic who will be able to diagnose the issue. There are often signs that a CV joint or shaft is beginning to fail.

Some of the symptoms are:

• There is a clicking noise that is noticeable especially when cornering

• Knocking sound while driving

• Vibration at higher speeds

• The boot is split and the grease has displaced often on the inside of the wheel

• A clunk sound while accelerating