Is it necessary to replace the CV joint boot if it's broken?
2 Answers
It is necessary to replace the CV joint boot if it's broken. Here are the specific details: Reason: After the CV joint boot is damaged, the grease inside the CV joint will be thrown out, and dust and dirt will enter the CV joint bearing, causing abnormal wear and even leading to the CV joint seizing. Material: The material used is thermoplastic elastomer, also known as thermoplastic rubber, which is a polymer alloy material between rubber and thermoplastic plastics, possessing the dual characteristics of rubber and plastic. Function: The purpose of the CV joint boot is to contain the grease, preventing it from leaking out and ensuring it stays inside the CV joint. Once the grease inside the CV joint is insufficient, it will cause excessive wear and premature damage to the CV joint. Repair requires replacing the CV joint, which is relatively expensive. Therefore, once you notice any damage or oil leakage in the CV joint boot, it must be replaced promptly.
Yes, if the CV joint boot is torn, I suggest replacing it as soon as possible. I encountered this situation last time and delayed it for a month. Eventually, the car started making clicking noises, and it turned out that all the grease inside had leaked out and dust had entered, causing severe wear to the entire CV joint. In the end, it cost over a thousand yuan to fix. If you don't replace it, once the grease is lost, the CV joint inside the boot will run dry, leading to increased noise over time and possible jerking sensations when turning. In severe cases, it could even affect steering safety. The key issue is that once the boot is torn, water and sand can easily get in, accelerating wear. Replacing it only costs a few hundred yuan, which is much cheaper than a major repair. I usually make it a habit to check these rubber components while driving, inspecting them regularly for cracks, especially before the rainy season. If there's an issue, replacing it early can save both hassle and money.
