Parts for your 2012 Subaru Exiga-Cv boots

CV Boots on the 2012 Subaru Exiga: What You Need to Know

The 2012 Subaru Exiga, a versatile and reliable family wagon, is equipped with all-wheel drive and uses Constant Velocity (CV) joints on its front and rear axles. This means that CV boots are very much a part of its drivetrain setup. CV boots play a crucial role in keeping those CV joints working smoothly, which helps maintain the vehicle's performance and longevity.

So, what exactly do CV boots do on a 2012 Subaru Exiga? Essentially, CV boots are flexible rubber or thermoplastic covers that protect the CV joints. These joints allow power to be transmitted to the wheels while accommodating the up-and-down movement of the suspension and steering changes. Without intact CV boots, dirt, debris, and water can get into the CV joints, leading to grease leaking out and ultimately, joint failure.

For a vehicle like the 2012 Subaru Exiga, which often encounters a mix of suburban and occasionally rural roads, the CV boots have to hold up against dirt, dust, water and road grit. The flexible nature of the rubber boots allows them to stretch as the wheels turn and move, all while keeping the grease sealed inside the joint. It might sound simple, but these boots are vital to the drivetrain's health and performance.

When it comes to maintenance and servicing of CV boots on the Subaru Exiga, regular inspections are key. Over time, the rubber can degrade, crack, or tear, especially in environments with extreme temperatures or when exposed to road chemicals like salt. If the CV boot is damaged, the grease inside will leak out and dirt and contaminants will get in. This contamination causes the joint to wear quickly, making it noisy and possibly leading to failure - something every Subaru owner wants to avoid.

Here's a quick guide to looking after your 2012 Subaru Exiga's CV boots:

• Routine inspections: During regular servicing or tyre rotations, it's a good idea to ask your mechanic to check the CV boots for any signs of cracks, splits or grease leakage.
• Watch for symptoms: Clicking noises especially when turning sharply is often a sign of CV joint wear, which in many cases starts with a damaged boot.
• Cleaning: Keeping the area around the CV boots free of heavy mud and grime buildup can extend their life, although this is often done naturally by water when driving.
• Timely replacement: If a CV boot is found to be damaged or leaking, replacing it quickly can save you a heap of money by preventing joint failure.

Replacing a damaged CV boot isn't just about slapping on a new cover. The old grease must be carefully cleaned off the CV joint, fresh grease packed in, and the new boot securely clamped to keep everything sealed. A poor install can lead to repeat problems, so it's usually worth getting a professional to do it unless you're confident working on cars.

CV boots might not be the most glamorous part of the Subaru Exiga, but they quietly keep the wheels turning smoothly. If they fail, the resulting damage is usually loud and costly to fix, so a bit of proactive maintenance helps avoid unexpected repair bills down the track. Subaru designed the Exiga with durability in mind, and maintaining the CV boots is part of keeping your vehicle running without a hitch.