CV Joint Passat - Wheel Side Boot

Good evening, everyone.

Today, during the usual tire change for this time of year on our Passat (see signature), I discovered that the axle boot on the left side, towards the wheel, is completely damaged.

Initially, I tried to remove the "stubborn bolt" on the upper control arm, but that wasn't easily achievable with the tools I had available.

I then quickly detached the driveshaft from the bottom, on the transmission side, and placed a jack under the lower control arm, carefully lifting it. This gave me a few extra millimeters of space on the transmission side, allowing me to completely remove the driveshaft downwards.

I've already removed the joint, and I'm planning to buy a repair kit on Monday.

==> End of preface ===>
Okay, here's my question: On the right side, you can already clearly see cracks in the joint. This definitely needs to be replaced before something worse happens. Based on your experience, is it accessible from there, or do you need to loosen the upper control arm to get to it?

Conclusion for today:
My neighbor is getting a beer for his persistent efforts to build a pit in his garage.

Have a nice evening.


Holger.

bartheho wrote:

Now, my question: On the right side, there are already noticeable cracks in the joint. This definitely needs to be replaced before something worse happens. Does that happen there as well, based on your experience...?

Of course, both shafts are the same length. I always do it this way; I only touch that wretched tie rod screw when it's absolutely necessary.

I was just downstairs again... I could have seen that before, though.


Sure, here's the translation:

"Thank you."

Best regards, Holger.

hello,

If you remove the rear lower control arm from the wheel bearing housing, you'll have even more space... often, you can even leave the driveshaft connected to the transmission.