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Parts for your 2013 Volvo Xc60-Cv boots
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2013 Volvo XC60 CV boots: what they do and how to look after them
Yes, the 2013 Volvo XC60 is fitted with CV boots. Volvo’s own workshop information (VIDA, 2013 model year, Driveshaft section) shows inner and outer constant-velocity joints on the front drive shafts protected by rubber/thermoplastic boots, and AWD variants add rear half-shafts with CV boots as well. OEM parts catalogues for the XC60 list dedicated “drive shaft boot” kits and clamps, and major driveline suppliers such as GKN/Spidan and SKF catalogue replacement CV boot kits for this vehicle, confirming their use on both FWD and AWD models.
On this XC60, the CV boots keep special moly grease inside the joints and block out water, grit and road grime. They’re small, simple covers, but they protect some very hardworking parts. When a boot splits, grease gets flung around the inner wheel or undertray, the joint runs dry, and wear accelerates—often heard as a clicking on full lock or a vibration under load. Left too long, that can mean a full driveshaft replacement rather than a far cheaper boot service.
As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to check the CV boots every 10,000–15,000 km or at least once a year. On the 2013 XC60, pay close attention to the outer fronts (they flex the most) and, on AWD cars, the rear inner boots near the diff. Look for hairline cracks, loose or missing clamps, and any sling marks of dark grease on the strut, liner or chassis.
Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech. Quality matters: use a high‑temp CV grease, proper stainless one‑time clamps, and boots matched to the joint design (the XC60 uses both Rzeppa and tripod styles depending on position). Many shops remove the shaft for a proper clean and repack, it’s the tidiest way to guarantee a long‑lasting seal. On this platform, the hub nut and some bolts are single‑use—replace them and torque to Volvo VIDA specs to avoid future drama. If a joint has already started clicking, a complete shaft assembly can be more economical than rebuilding the joint, especially once labour is factored in.
Signs a 2013 XC60 may need CV boot attention:
- Grease sprayed around the inner wheel, strut or undertray
- Cracks or wetness on the boot surface, or a loose clamp
- Clicking on turns or a shudder under acceleration
Stay ahead of it and a simple boot job will keep the XC60’s driveline quiet, smooth and ready for plenty more Kiwi and Aussie kilometres.
Popular questions about 2013 Volvo XC60 CV boots
How often should the CV boots be replaced?
There isn’t a fixed kilometre interval, boots are replaced on condition. Inspect them at every service (around 10,000–15,000 km). In harsher Aussie outback or coastal NZ conditions, check more often. If there’s any cracking, grease seepage or a loose clamp, replace the boot before the joint wears.
Can a split “universal” boot be used on an XC60?
Split boots can be a temporary fix, but a proper boot fitted with the shaft removed and the joint cleaned and repacked is more durable on the XC60. Given the vehicle’s torque and suspension travel, an OEM‑style boot with correct clamps and grease generally lasts longer and saves you doing the job twice.
What happens if a CV boot fails on an AWD XC60?
On AWD models, a failed rear or front boot can let water and grit in, wearing the joint and potentially causing vibrations through the driveline. If ignored, it can damage the joint and stress other AWD components. Catch it early and it’s usually just a boot and grease, leave it, and you may be up for a complete shaft.