How to Replace Front Drivers CV Axle Front Wheel Drive 01-07 Toyota Highlander
Difficulty: Advanced · About 100 min · Toyota Highlander
Replace the front driver's CV axle on a front-wheel-drive 2001-2007 Toyota Highlander.
Tools you will need
- Floor jack
- Jack stands
- Ratchet
- 17mm socket
- 30mm socket
- Rust penetrant
- Hammer
- Pry bar
- Center punch
- Rubber mallet
- Dead blow hammer
- Bungee cord
- Drain pan
- Torque wrench
- 1/2 inch breaker bar
Parts and supplies
- Front driver's CV axle
Steps
- Remove the wheel
Pry off the center cap, loosen the lugs, break the center hub nut loose with a punch and a 12-point 30mm socket, then raise and support the car and pull the wheel.
- Remove the old axle
Brace the rotor with a pry bar while fully loosening the hub nut, remove the ball joint's three 17mm bolts, pry the joint away from the control arm, undo the axle nut, then pull the axle out of the rotor and transmission.
- Install the new axle
Seat it in the transmission and work it into the rotor, thread the hub nut on, pry the control arm down to seat the ball joint, then torque its 17mm bolt and nuts to about 55 ft-lb and thread the axle nut on.
- Reinstall the wheel
Torque the lug nuts to about 76 ft-lb in a crossing pattern, torque the hub nut to about 217 ft-lb, stake it with a punch and hammer, then refit the center cap and lug covers.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.