Parts for your 1998 Subaru Forester-Cv boots

1998 Subaru Forester CV Boots — Purpose and Service Advice

Based on the Subaru Forester MY1998 Factory Service Manual (Driveshaft/Front Axle and Rear Axle sections), the Subaru FAST parts catalogue, and common workshop references such as the Gregory’s/Haynes Forester manual, the 1998 Subaru Forester (SF) definitely uses CV boots on both front and rear half-shafts. So CV boots are relevant to this model and form a normal wear-and-tear service item.

On this Forester, CV boots seal grease into the CV joints and keep water, sand and road grit out. The outer joints (at the wheel hubs) articulate through big steering angles, while the inner joints handle plunge as the suspension moves. Each joint relies on thick moly grease and a flexible rubber boot with proper clamps. If a boot splits, grease flings out, water gets in, and the joint can start clicking on turns or shuddering under load—especially noticeable in tight carpark manoeuvres or on hill starts.

For owners in Australia and New Zealand, where heat, UV, corrugations, and the odd beach or gravel road are part of life, regular checks are smart. A quick look behind the wheels for sling marks of dark grease, cracked rubber near the clamp ridges, or a loose clamp can save a joint from early death. Torn boots are a common reason for a failed roadworthy or WOF, so it pays to stay on top of them.

• Inspect boots at every service (about every 10,000–15,000 km) and after off-road or beach trips.
• Replace at the first sign of cracking, sweating grease, or a loose clamp, don’t wait for clicking.
• When re-booting, use quality clamps (not cable ties) and the correct molybdenum-disulphide CV grease.
• If the joint has run dry or clicks, a complete axle assembly may be better value than a boot-only repair.

Boot replacement on the 1998 Forester involves removing the axle, cleaning the joint, packing fresh grease, fitting the new boot, and correctly crimping clamps. The axle nut must be torqued to spec and staked, if strut bolts are loosened, mark-and-return or re-check alignment. Good-quality OEM-equivalent boot kits last longer and fit properly around the DOJ and outer joint lips.

Look after the boots and the original Subaru joints will usually rack up big kilometres without complaint, keeping the SF’s AWD smooth, quiet, and reliable.

Popular questions about 1998 Subaru Forester CV boots

How often should CV boots be replaced on a 1998 Subaru Forester?
There isn’t a fixed interval, they’re replaced on condition. With regular inspections every service, many last well beyond 150,000 km. Sun, heat, and dirt roads can age them faster. If cracks, grease mist, or loose clamps show up, it’s time to re-boot before the joint is damaged.

Can they drive with a torn CV boot?
They can, but it’s risky. A minor split quickly flings grease out and lets water in, which can destroy the joint and turn a cheap boot job into a full axle replacement. It can also attract a defect at roadworthy or WOF time. Best to repair promptly.

Should owners replace just the boot or the whole axle?
If the joint is quiet and clean inside, a boot kit is cost-effective. If there’s clicking on turns, visible wear, or the boot has been torn for a while, a complete axle can be better value. Many workshops inspect the joint during disassembly and advise on the spot.