What are the signs of a worn CV joint?

The most common sign is a clicking or knocking noise when turning at low speed, which often gets louder as the joint wears. You may also notice clunking on acceleration, vibration through the car, or grease thrown around the inside of the wheel from a split CV boot.

Why do CV joints fail and when should they be replaced?

CV joints usually fail because a torn rubber boot lets the protective grease escape and dirt and water get in, wearing out the joint. They should be replaced once they are noisy, worn, or have a damaged boot, as a failed joint can leave the car undriveable.

How do I know which CV joint fits my car?

CV joints are vehicle-specific and differ between the inner and outer joint and the left and right driveshaft. Enter your registration above to see constant velocity joints confirmed to fit your exact vehicle.

How much does CV joint replacement cost?

The price of a CV joint depends on your exact vehicle and the brand you choose. Enter your registration above to see parts confirmed to fit, then compare prices from the brands we stock on this page. Free UK delivery on orders over £50.

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CV Joint buying guide — what to know before you buy

A CV joint (constant velocity joint) allows a drive shaft to transmit torque at a constant rotational speed regardless of the steering angle or suspension travel, making smooth drive possible on steered front wheels. A worn or split CV joint is identifiable by a distinctive clicking or crunching noise on tight turns.

Types of CV joint

Outer CV joints are the classic ball-and-groove design (Rzeppa type) that handles the high steering angles at the wheel hub. Inner CV joints, which connect the shaft to the differential, use a tripod or plunging tulip design that accommodates up-and-down suspension travel as well as rotation. Both types live inside a rubber boot filled with grease.

On rear-wheel-drive vehicles with independent rear suspension, CV joints are also used at the rear. Four-wheel-drive vehicles use them at all four corners, making CV joint maintenance an important part of running a 4×4.

Diagnosing CV joint failure

The classic symptom is a clicking or crunching sound on tight turns, most noticeable in carparks or when reversing in a slow arc. The noise is caused by the hardened steel balls running in worn grooves in the joint body. As wear progresses the noise appears at wider steering angles and eventually at straight-ahead driving, indicating the joint is close to complete failure.

A torn CV boot is the most common cause of premature CV joint failure. Once the boot splits, the grease is thrown out and contaminated with water and road grit. Replacing a torn boot promptly, before the joint itself is contaminated, can save the expense of a full joint replacement.

Clicking on tight turns — outer CV joint
Vibration at speed — inner CV joint
Torn or split CV boot (causes rapid contamination)
Grease thrown onto the inside of the wheel
Clunking under load during acceleration

Replacement options

CV joints are available individually or as part of a complete drive shaft assembly. Where wear is limited to one joint, replacing the joint alone with a boot and grease kit is cost-effective. If the shaft itself is bent, corroded, or the inner joint is also worn, a complete driveshaft exchange unit is often the practical choice. Use the registration lookup to confirm the correct part for your vehicle and axle position.