What should you inspect for damage or wear in a CV joint?

Inspecting the CV joint boots is crucial because these rubber components protect the CV joints from dirt, debris, and moisture, which can lead to premature wear or failure. Over time, the boots can develop cracks, tears, or other damage due to exposure to heat, contaminants, or the stresses of movement. If a boot is compromised, grease can escape from the joint, and dirt can enter, resulting in increased friction, noise, and ultimately potential failure of the CV joint itself. Therefore, regularly checking the condition of the CV joint boots helps ensure that the entire CV joint assembly functions properly and maintains longevity.