If you hear a clicking or clunking noise when turning - especially at low speed in car parks - that's likely a worn CV (constant velocity) joint. The rubber boot that protects the joint splits over time due to heat, age, and road conditions, letting grease escape and dirt and moisture get in.
Once contaminated, the joint wears rapidly. Catching a split boot early means a relatively cheap repair - just a new boot and fresh grease. Leaving it means replacing the whole joint or even the complete driveshaft, which is significantly more expensive.
CV joint issues are extremely common in front-wheel-drive vehicles, which includes most passenger cars on New Zealand roads - from Toyota Corollas and Honda Civics through to Mazda 3s and Subaru Imprezas.
What We Cover
- CV boot inspection for splits, tears, and deterioration
- CV joint replacement - inner and outer
- Complete driveshaft (half-shaft) replacement
- CV joint regrease and reboot service
- Inner CV joint (tripod joint) assessment
- Outer CV joint wear and play check
- Driveshaft balance and runout check
- Hub bearing inspection while driveshaft is removed
- Driveshaft seal inspection and replacement
- Steering knuckle and related component check
- Boot clamp and fastener replacement
- Road test to verify noise elimination
How It Works
Bring the vehicle in and we'll put it on the hoist to inspect the CV boots and joints. If it's just a split boot with the joint still in good condition, we can reboot and regrease it - a straightforward job.
If the joint itself is worn or damaged, we'll recommend either a new joint or a complete driveshaft depending on what's most cost-effective for your vehicle. Most CV joint repairs are completed within a few hours, and we road-test afterwards to confirm the clicking or noise is gone.
Pricing Guide
CV repair costs depend on whether it's a boot replacement, a joint replacement, or a complete driveshaft. Reconditioned driveshafts can offer excellent value compared to new units.
Labour is the main component, as the driveshaft needs to be removed from the vehicle. We'll always quote the job after inspection so you know exactly what to expect.
Why Choose Eastern Bays
We always check CV boots during services and WOFs because catching a split boot early saves serious money - a boot replacement is far cheaper than a full driveshaft. If we spot a split boot, we'll let you know and give you a quote on the spot.
Our technicians are experienced with CV joint work across all common vehicle makes. We use quality replacement boots and joints, and for some vehicles we can source reconditioned driveshafts that offer excellent value compared to new units. No surprises down the track - just honest advice on the most economical repair option.
While you're here, we can also take care of wheel alignment, brake repairs and WOF inspection - everything under one roof at our Glen Innes workshop.