How to Replace Front CV Axle Boot 08-12 Ford Escape

Difficulty: Advanced · About 150 min · Ford Escape

Replace the inner CV axle boot on a 2008–2012 Ford Escape, preserving joint alignment marks and reclamping the boot securely before reinstalling the axle.

Steps

1. Raise the vehicle and remove the axle

   Loosen the axle and wheel nuts, raise and support the vehicle, then remove the wheel. Disconnect the brake-hose and ABS retainers, sway-bar link, and lower strut fasteners as needed to free the axle.

2. Remove the inner boot and joint

   Support the caliper, remove the axle, and mark the joint and shaft alignment. Cut the boot clamps, separate the serviceable inner joint, remove its snap ring, and slide the boot off.

3. Fit the replacement boot

   Trim the replacement boot to the correct size for the shaft. Slide it into place and secure the small end with the supplied clamp tool before reassembling the joint.

4. Grease and reassemble the CV joint

   Pack the joint and boot with the kit's specified grease. Reinstall the tripod and snap ring in their original orientation, then seat the boot over the joint housing and secure its large clamp.

5. Reinstall the axle and suspension

   Grease the splines only where specified and guide the axle into the transmission and hub. Reconnect the strut, sway-bar link, brake hose, ABS lead, and caliper, tightening fasteners to specification.

6. Refit the wheel and inspect

   Install and torque the axle nut and wheel fasteners to vehicle specifications. Confirm the boot is not twisted, check the brake pedal, and test at low speed while listening for clicking.

Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.