Boot, Removing And Installing: Removing

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2022 Audi S3, 2022 Audi RS 3, 2022 Audi A3 Quattro, and 2022 Audi A3. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Follow the guidelines for clean working conditions. Refer to GUIDELINES FOR CLEAN WORKING CONDITIONS .
Dirt must not enter through the faulty boot or get into the open steering gear when cleaning the steering gear and surrounding components, when removing the steering gear components or when greasing the steering gear.

-- Bring wheels in the straight position.

-- Remove the wheel. Refer to WHEELS AND TIRES .

-- Mark the position of the nut -2- on the tie rod using for example a felt-tip pen.

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

-- Loosen the nut while counterholding the tie rod end -1-.

-- Loosen the spring clamp -4- from the boot using the Hose Clip Pliers: VAG1275A and slide onto the tie rod.

Courtesy of AUDI OF AMERICA, LLC

-- Remove the lock washer -5- and pull the boot off of steering gear housing.

-- Remove the tie rod -3- from the tie rod end -1-.

-- Remove the nut -2- from the tie rod.

-- Remove the boot -6- with the spring clip from the tie rod in direction of -arrow-.

CAUTION:

There is a risk of destroying the steering gear if the boot is faulty.

Moisture and dirt could enter.

- Check the splines on the steering rack for a visible lubricating film.

- If the film of grease is missing, replace the steering gear.