Axle Joints: Checking Play And Dust Boots

1. Check play.
2. Visually inspect the dust boots for damage.

   Information 

   • When doing so, the rubber dust boots should be pressed down with the fingers to reveal hidden cracks. 
   • If a rubber dust boot leaks, the corresponding joint or control arm must be replaced, because any dirt or moisture that seeps in will destroy the joint. 
3. Inspect the dust boots of the axle joints (ball joints) on the wheel suspension (front and rear) as follows:
   • Place the vehicle on a lifting platform with the steering lock disengaged.
   • Perform a visual inspection after cleaning.

   Information 

   • Over a small area in the vicinity of the brake cover panels, no visual inspection is possible. 
   • Check this area by touch. 

The procedure for the front axle is as follows:

• Turn the front wheels as far as they will go
• Perform a visual inspection of the visible surfaces on the left and right
• After turning the front wheels to the other steering stop, check the other half of each rubber dust boot.