A CV joint is a constant velocity joint, one of the key elements of the transmission, ensuring smooth transfer of torque to the wheels. It is important to understand where the CV joint is located in the car in order to independently diagnose its condition and identify faults in a timely manner.

What is a CV joint and why is it needed

The CV joint ensures the transfer of rotation from the gearbox to the wheels, while allowing you to turn the steering wheel and change the suspension position. It is especially important in front-wheel drive cars. There are two types:
  • Inner CV joint - connects the gearbox to the axle shaft;
  • Outer CV joint - connects the axle shaft to the wheel hub.

Where is the CV joint located in the car

On front-wheel drive cars, CV joints are installed on both sides of the drive:
  • The inner CV joint is located closer to the gearbox or differential. Look under the hood in the area of the axle shaft - near the gearbox itself you will see an element covered with a boot - this is the inner CV joint.
  • The outer CV joint is located on the wheel side, next to the hub. It is also covered with a rubber boot and often becomes a source of crunching when turning the steering wheel.
On rear-wheel drive cars with independent suspension, CV joints are installed on the rear drives. In all-wheel drive cars, joints are present on both the front and rear axles.

Where is the inner CV joint located

The inner CV joint is located between the gearbox and the axle shaft. Usually it is under the engine, closer to the center of the car. It looks like a metal cylinder covered with a black corrugated boot. You can visually identify it when inspecting the undercarriage or on a lift.

Where is the outer CV joint located

The outer CV joint is located between the axle shaft and the wheel hub. It is this joint that allows the wheels to rotate when turning the steering wheel. It is easiest to find by removing the wheel - the joint will be right behind the brake disc. It is also covered with a boot and often fails first due to active work in turns and moving loads.

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How to find the CV joint yourself

  1. Jack up the car and remove the wheel.
  2. Find the axle shaft - a straight metal shaft between the gearbox and the hub.
  3. At the ends of the axle shaft there will be two joints - the inner one closer to the gearbox, the outer one closer to the wheel.
  4. Each CV joint will be covered with a boot. If it is damaged, traces of grease or dirt are visible.

Signs of a faulty CV joint

If you hear a crunch when turning, especially at low speed, the outer CV joint is likely worn out. Vibrations during acceleration, clicks, or jerks may indicate problems with the inner one. You should also be wary if you notice:
  • Damage to the boot;
  • Leakage of thick black grease;
  • Metallic clicks when starting to move.

Features of CV joint location in different cars

In cars like VAZ 2109, Lanos, Passat B3, CV joints are in standard places: the outer one near the wheel, the inner one at the gearbox. They are identified by rubber corrugations and location at the ends of the drive shafts. Diagnosis and replacement in such models is quite simple and can be done independently.
Now you know where the CV joint is located in the car, how to recognize it, and what to pay attention to during inspection. It is important to regularly check the condition of the boots and listen to sounds while driving. Timely diagnosis and replacement of a damaged CV joint will help avoid more serious problems with the transmission and suspension.