How to Replace CV Axle Shaft 95-05 Pontiac Sunfire
Difficulty: Advanced · About 90 min · Pontiac Sunfire
Replace a CV axle shaft on a 1995-2005 Pontiac Sunfire.
Tools you will need
- Floor jack
- Jack stands
- Ratchet
- Complete metric socket set
- Hammer
- Pry bar
- 1/2 inch breaker bar
- Torque wrench
- Drain pan
Parts and supplies
- CV axle shaft
- Transmission fluid
Steps
- Remove the wheel
Loosen the lug nuts and the hub nut with the car still on the ground, then raise and support it and pull the wheel and hub nut.
- Remove the old axle
Strike the axle with a hammer to break it loose, unbolt the steering knuckle, push the axle through and out, then with a catch pan ready, pry it out of the transmission carefully to avoid damaging the seal.
- Install the new axle
Seat the new axle into the transmission, work its outer end into the steering knuckle, bolt the knuckle back together and torque its bolts to about 95 ft-lb, refit the washer and hub nut and torque it to about 144 ft-lb, then refit the wheel and torque the lug nuts to about 75 ft-lb in a star pattern.
- Top off the transmission fluid
Check the dipstick to see how much is needed, then feed fluid in slowly through a length of hose rather than forcing or squeezing it.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.