Parts for your 2004 Toyota Bb-Cv boots

2004 Toyota bB CV boots: what they do and how to look after them

Based on the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) for chassis codes NCP30/31/35 and the factory service procedures published in Toyota/Scion service information for the related 2004 Scion xB, the 2004 Toyota bB is fitted with constant-velocity (CV) joints and rubber CV boots on its front drive shafts. The EPC lists dedicated inboard and outboard “Boot Kit, Front Drive Shaft” components for this model line, and Toyota’s service manuals outline inspection and replacement of these boots. On NCP35 4WD variants, additional CV boots are also used on the rear drive shafts.

On the bB, CV boots are the flexible rubber sleeves over each CV joint. Their job is simple but critical: keep the special moly grease in, and keep water, grit, and road muck out. With front-wheel drive (and some 4WD variants), each side has both inner and outer boots that flex every time the steering turns or the suspension moves. If a boot splits, grease gets flung over the inside of the wheel and suspension, and the joint can wear rapidly, leading to that tell-tale clicking on tight turns.

As part of regular servicing of a 2004 Toyota bB, it’s smart to eyeball the CV boots every 10,000 km or at each oil change. A quick check behind the front wheels for grease spray, cracks, or loose metal bands can save a lot of coin later. Catch a small split early and a reboot with fresh grease and clamps will usually sort it, leave it too long and the joint may need replacing.

• Watch for symptoms: grease on the inside of the rims or lower arms, a rubber smell after a drive, or clicking when turning.
• If the joint is quiet and play-free, a proper boot kit (new boot, clamps, and the specified molybdenum-disulphide CV grease) is the right fix.
• Avoid universal “split” boots except as a short-term roadside patch, they don’t last on the bB’s front end.
• Use the correct banding tool so clamps bite properly, and always re-torque and stake the axle nut to spec after reassembly.

Quality matters. OEM or high-grade neoprene boots sized for the NCP3x platform hold up better to Aussie and Kiwi heat, stop–start city use, and the odd full-lock kerb turn. For vehicles subject to WoF/roadworthy checks, any torn boot or grease leak can be a fail item, so proactive maintenance pays off. If one front boot has perished from age, it’s sensible to inspect—and often replace—the opposite side at the same visit.

FAQs

How often should CV boots be inspected on a 2004 Toyota bB?
They should be checked at every service or about every 10,000 km. Frequent city driving, hot climates, or rough roads can age the rubber sooner, so a quick look whenever the wheels are off is good practice.

Can they keep driving with a torn CV boot?
It’s not recommended. Once the boot splits, grease escapes and contaminants rush in. A joint can go from fine to noisy in days or weeks. If caught early, a reboot usually saves the joint, if it’s clicking, the joint likely needs replacement.

Should both sides be done if one CV boot fails?
Often, yes. If one has cracked from age, the other is commonly close behind. Replacing boots in pairs on the same axle can reduce downtime and repeat labour, but a technician should inspect and advise based on actual condition.