Parts for your 2013 Subaru Xv-Cv boots

2013 Subaru XV CV boots — what they do and how to look after them

Yes, the 2013 Subaru XV absolutely uses CV boots. Technical sources that confirm this include the Subaru Factory Service Manual for the GP-series XV (Driveline/Axle sections for front and rear), the Subaru global parts catalogue for GP models showing front outer/inner and rear axle boot kits, and aftermarket driveline catalogues from major OEM suppliers that list complete CV boot kits for the XV. Being permanent all-wheel drive, the XV has CV joints at each driveshaft, and each of those joints is protected by a rubber or TPE boot.

On the XV, the CV boot’s job is straightforward: keep high-moly grease in the joint and keep water, dust and grit out. The outer (Birfield/Rzeppa) joints cope with steering angle up front, while the inner (DOJ) joints accommodate plunge as the suspension moves. If a boot splits, grease slings onto the strut, brake and wheel, contaminants rush in, and the joint can start clicking or binding. Left too long, that turns into a whole axle replacement instead of a quick boot and grease job.

For Australian and New Zealand conditions—heat, UV, road grime, corrugations and the odd gravel detour—regular checks are smart. It’s worth inspecting the XV’s CV boots at every service (or around 10,000–15,000 km). Look for hairline cracks in the bellows, perished rubber near the small clamp, or wet, dark grease spray on the inside of the rim or under the guards.

• Replace a boot at the first sign of cracking, grease seepage, or a loose clamp.
• When replacing, clean the joint thoroughly and repack with the correct high-moly CV grease.
• Use quality stainless bands and the proper crimping tool to avoid leaks.
• Re-fit the axle with new nut where specified and torque/stake exactly as per the Subaru service manual.

It’s common to replace just the boot and grease if the joint hasn’t worn, that saves cost and keeps the factory axle in play. If there’s clicking on full lock or free play in the joint, a complete shaft may be the better call. A proper visual check on a hoist is the best way to decide. Either way, keeping the XV’s CV boots fresh protects the driveline and keeps the AWD system tight and quiet on the daily commute and the weekend escape alike.

Popular questions about 2013 Subaru XV CV boots

Do the front and rear of a 2013 Subaru XV both have CV boots?

They do. The XV’s AWD layout uses CV joints on both front and rear driveshafts, and each joint is protected by a boot. Up front there are inner and outer boots on each side, the rear shafts have boots at each end as well.

How often should CV boots be checked on an XV?

Have them inspected at every routine service, or roughly every 10,000–15,000 km. Harsh use—gravel roads, beach launches, heavy steering lock in carparks—can accelerate wear, so a quick look under the guards more often doesn’t hurt.

Can you replace just the boot, or is a whole driveshaft needed?

If the boot has split but the joint is still quiet and smooth, a boot-and-grease service is usually fine. If there’s clicking on turns, gritty movement, or metal flakes in the old grease, a complete CV shaft is typically the economical, longer-lasting fix.