How do I know if my Subaru CV joint is bad?

A quick indicator is a clicking or popping noise when turning, especially at low speeds, combined with a torn boot or grease leakage, or noticeable vibration. If you notice these signs, have your Subaru inspected promptly.

CV joints transfer power to the wheels while allowing steering and suspension movement. In Subaru vehicles, front CV joints are common wear points, and a failed CV joint can affect steering, acceleration, and safety. This article outlines the main signs, how to inspect, and what to expect in terms repairs and costs.

Common signs of a failing CV joint

Audible indicators, physical signs, and performance symptoms together help identify a failing CV joint. Start with a visual boot check and listen carefully during a test drive.

Audible signs

• Clicking or popping noises when turning, typically at low speeds; the sound may grow louder as you continue the turn.


• Clunking or thumping sounds when starting to move or shifting under load in AWD models.

Conclusion: Persistent turning noises often indicate CV joint wear or boot contamination. Don’t dismiss these sounds.

Physical signs

• Torn or cracked CV boot with visible grease leakage; grease around the wheel well or suspension components is a strong indicator.


• Greased residue on the hub or underside of the vehicle near the axle.

Conclusion: A damaged boot is the usual entry point for dirt and moisture, accelerating joint wear. Prompt boot replacement and inspection are advised.

Performance indicators

• Vibration or shuddering during acceleration or at highway speeds, especially when turning or under load.


• Reduced smooth power transfer to a wheel, which may feel like drivetrain resistance or dragging on one side.

Conclusion: If you notice vibration alongside other signs, have the CV joints checked to determine whether the joint or axle needs replacement.

How to inspect a CV joint at home

Safety first: park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock wheels. Use visual checks and controlled tests to assess joint condition.

Boot and boot-attachment check

• Inspect CV boots for tears, cracks, or missing clamps; a ruptured boot can lead to rapid joint contamination and wear.


• Look for grease spray or stains around the wheel or under the engine bay indicating a leak.

Conclusion: A torn boot or leaked grease warrants prompt inspection by a mechanic to prevent accelerated joint wear.

Joint movement and road-test checks

• With the car safely supported, check for excessive play by rotating the wheel gently; listen for roughness or grinding that suggests wear.


• During a cautious test drive, listen for clicking when turning and feel for unusual vibrations; note speed and steering angle where symptoms occur.

Conclusion: A combination of visual signs and a careful road test provides a strong signal of CV joint health and whether service is needed.

What to do next if your CV joint is failing

Replacement decisions depend on wear level, boot condition, and your Subaru’s drivetrain (front-wheel drive vs all-wheel drive). Here are typical options and considerations.

Repair vs. replacement options

• Replace the CV boot if the joint is otherwise good; this prevents further contamination and can extend joint life.


• Replace the CV axle assembly (the joint and axle) if the joint shows significant wear or makes clicking noises; replacing the entire axle is often more reliable than a boot-only fix.


• For AWD models, consider replacing both sides if wear is present on one side to maintain balanced drive characteristics, especially at high mileage.


• Budget expectations: Parts and labor typically range from about $300 to $800 per axle in the U.S., depending on model and whether you replace a single axle or both sides.

Conclusion: A professional diagnosis will determine whether boot repair, single-axle replacement, or both sides are needed for your Subaru.

Preventive maintenance and when to schedule service

Regular checks help extend CV joint life and prevent sudden failures, especially for Subarus used in rough roads or demanding driving conditions.

Preventive measures

• Inspect CV boots during routine service (oil changes, tire rotations) and replace torn boots promptly.


• Address unusual noises promptly; delaying can accelerate joint wear and lead to catastrophic failure.


• Follow Subaru’s drivetrain maintenance schedule; increase inspection frequency for high-mileage or harsh-driving conditions.

Conclusion: Regular boot inspections and timely replacement significantly reduce CV joint failures in Subaru vehicles.

Summary

Key indicators of a bad CV joint include a clicking or popping noise when turning, visible torn boots with grease leakage, and vibration or clunking during acceleration or turns. Start with a boot inspection and a careful road test, then seek a professional diagnosis to determine the best repair plan. Acting promptly protects safety and maintains vehicle performance.

If you want, I can tailor this guidance to your specific Subaru model and year for more precise symptom patterns and repair estimates.

How long do Subaru CV joints last?

80,000 to 100,000 miles
The lifespan of your CV axle is typically fairly long, withstanding 80,000 to 100,000 miles under regular driving conditions. If you begin hearing a loud, rhythmic clicking noise as you turn, it's a good sign the axle is failing.

How to tell if a Subaru CV axle is bad?

But I don't get much noise but then if I turn. It. You hear that rumble and feel that rumble that's the U-jints. Trying not to break in half. So if when you're driving straight. Ahead.

What are the symptoms of a bad CV joint?

Common symptoms of a bad CV joint include a clicking or popping noise when turning, vibrations or shaking during acceleration, clunking sounds, difficulty steering, and uneven tire wear. A torn CV boot can also be a sign, which may lead to grease leaking onto your tires.
 
Noises

• Clicking/Popping: This is the most common symptom, occurring during sharp turns at low speeds. It is often the outer joint failing. 
• Clunking: A clunking sound when accelerating or decelerating can indicate a failing inner joint. A loud clunk on startup or when shifting into reverse can also be a sign. 

Vibrations

• Shuddering: You may feel shaking or wobbling during acceleration, which can be a sign of a failing inner joint. 
• Vibration: Overall vibrations in the vehicle can also point to a bad CV joint. 

Handling and steering

• Difficulty steering: The steering wheel may feel stiff or jerky, especially during turns. 
• Uneven tire wear: A bad CV joint can affect wheel alignment, leading to uneven wear on your tires. 

Other signs

• Grease on tires: A torn CV boot can leak lubricating grease, which will be visible on the inside of the wheel and tire.
• Wheel binding: This may be felt as a "tight" feeling when turning. 

How to tell the difference between a bad wheel bearing and a bad CV joint?

A bad wheel bearing typically causes a constant humming or growling noise that changes with speed, while a bad CV joint makes a clicking noise when turning. A bad wheel bearing might also cause vibrations or a wobble, whereas a bad CV joint could lead to a grease leak from the boot or a clunking sensation when turning. 
This video explains the difference between a bad wheel bearing and a bad CV joint: 59sFindTheBestCarPriceYouTube · Apr 14, 2023

Symptom	Bad Wheel Bearing	Bad CV Joint
Noise	A constant humming, growling, or rumbling sound that gets louder as you drive faster. It may also produce a clicking or popping sound.	A distinct clicking or popping sound, especially when turning sharply. It may also have a grinding quality.
Turning	The noise may change or become louder when turning the steering wheel.	The noise is most pronounced during turns.
Vibration	Can cause vibrations in the steering wheel and a general shaking sensation.	Can cause vibrations that affect the wheels.
Visual signs	May lead to uneven tire wear.	A torn or damaged CV boot, which leaks grease onto the inside of the tire.
Handling	A loose or wobbly feeling in the steering or wheel.	The car may pull to one side or feel unsteady when turning.
Other	An ABS or traction control light may illuminate.	A failure can cause a loss of power to the wheel, potentially immobilizing the vehicle.

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This video demonstrates how to check a wheel bearing for play: 1mBoostedMotorsportsYouTube · May 18, 2021