It is possible to drive a car with a torn CV boot, but doing so will likely lead to further damage that will eventually require more extensive repair.
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Can you replace just the CV boot?
If no noise is present and only the CV boot is broken, you can replace just the CV boot. Tip: Before you install a new axle, check the CV joints (even when the boot is broken) and see if they are worth saving. If you need to replace the CV axle completely, the new CV axle will come with the boots already installed.
How much should it cost to replace a CV boot?
The Average Cost for CV Boot Replacement Is $124 to $343 Depending on if You Go to the Mechanic or DIY. This price range is based on national averages for all vehicles and does not factor in taxes, fees, or your particular make and model. Related repairs or maintenance, such as CV axle replacement, may also be needed.
How serious is a leaking CV boot?
This may seem like an obscure part, one that you don’t have to worry about. But CV boots serve a simple but important purpose and allow the CV axles and joints to stay clean and enjoy a long service life. When a CV boot leaks, it can cause the attached joint to become damaged posing a serious safety hazard.
How do you temporarily fix a CV boot?

Can you duct tape a torn CV boot?

Is it better to replace CV boot or whole axle?
It depends on the vehicle mileage. I’d say if less than 100K you are better off doing the boot. An OEM axle is a prize. But if a car has lots of miles, well everything wears out and a reman makes sense.
How long can I drive without a CV boot?
If you only want to replace the boot do it soon. you are safe until it starts to create a clicking sound when turning, then you will have to replace the whole CV joint. if you drive it for too long the company may not take your core back if you pick up a reman unit. 50 miles you “should” be ok.
Should CV boots be replaced in pairs?
On a high-mileage vehicle with a bad CV joint or boot, it’s often a good idea to replace both shafts at the same time. Often, the right (passenger side) shaft fails first because right turns are at a sharper angle than left turns, and right turns are more common than left turns.
Can I replace a CV joint myself?
Replacing a CV joint yourself will save you a fair bit of money, but will require a decent amount of mechanical expertise and time. If you think the job is too complicated, it’s recommended that you leave the task to a qualified technician. This can also help protect you from voiding any motor plan or warranty.
Why do CV boots fail?
A bad CV boot is commonly caused by regular wear over time but may be accelerated by poor road conditions and exposure to extreme elements. The major problem is that CV boot issues will quickly be compounded. On meticulously-engineered, high-quality vehicles like your Volkswagen, the CV axles very rarely fail.
What happens if you don’t fix a torn CV boot?
If the boot becomes ripped or torn, the grease contained within will get slung out from the joint while road grit, debris, and water will be allowed in which further accelerates the wear and tear on the joint.
Can you seal a CV boot?
To ensure a long lasting seal we have found that the best solution is applying epoxy to the CV boots during the installation process. This will keep the boots from separating with the increased articulation or extreme off road use. The tube of Permatex epoxy is enough for several sets of axles.
What does a broken CV boot sound like?
A worn-out CV joint also makes clunking sounds when shifting from drive to reverse; these sounds are usually deafening when accelerating in turns. You might hear cracks or breaks sound in the rubber or plastic boots around the CV joint. The car can also shudder or shake under heavy acceleration.
What happens when the CV axle boot rips?
Grease leak: When a CV boot cracks or tears it will usually leak grease onto the inside of the wheel. This leak can eventually be sent into other parts of the chassis or even the underside of the vehicle as the CV axle turns.
What causes CV boots to split?
Shock loading puts massive amounts of pressure on the driveline, and CV joints are usually the weakest link. This will cause the CV joint cage to physically crack; or in some cases the actual shaft will shear, but this isn’t as common.
How urgent is CV joint?
Failing CV joints pose a serious risk so be sure to get your car into your auto shop as soon as possible. If there is only a small crack in the outer CV joint, your mechanic may be able to simply replace the CV boot and repack the grease, but for any major damage, an entirely new joint is necessary.
How do I keep my CV axle boots from cracking?

How many miles do CV boots last?
The CV boot is used constantly when the car is in use. Usually, the CV boots will last about 80,000 miles before they have to be replaced. The boots are made from rubber, which means that they will take on a lot of abuse over the years due to the high amount of heat that they are exposed to.
What is the difference between a CV boot and a CV joint?
CV joints are packed with grease for lubrication. To keep the grease in the joint and moisture, dirt and roadway grime out, the joint is covered with a rubber boot called a CV boot. CV boots are made of a durable rubber that can withstand extreme weather and travel conditions.
How many miles should a CV axle last?
Question: When do you need to replace a constant velocity joint? Answer: CV joints last from 70,000 to 130,000 miles, and over, but technicians recommend that they be inspected periodically.
How long does it take a mechanic to replace a CV joint?
Labor rates vary from shop to shop but normally it will take 1.5-3 hours to replace a cv axle.
What wears out a CV joint?
The most common problem with CV joints is when the protective boot cracks, tears, or becomes damaged. Once this happens, the grease leaks out and moisture and dirt get in, causing the CV joint to wear faster and eventually fail due to loss of lubrication, contamination, and corrosion.
Can you drive with a messed up CV joint?
The Constant Velocity is sealed by a boot. This boot may get damaged, and when this happens, the joint will wear out and eventually fail. If you drive a car with a damaged CV, the joint will disintegrate further, making driving impossible. You’ll not be able to control the vehicle and may get involved in an accident.
How do I test my CV boots?
Give Them a Massage – Rubber CV boots should be pliable. If they are dry and inflexible, they don’t have many miles left on them. To be sure what state they’re in, pull them, twist them, push the folds apart and look into the crevices. Look for any signs of cracking or cracked rubber, and check for splits and cracks.