Parts for your 2018 Holden Commodore-Cv boots

2018 Holden Commodore CV boots — what they do and how to look after them

Technical sources confirm the 2018 Holden Commodore (ZB) uses CV boots. GM Global EPC/Parts Catalog lists inner and outer CV joint boots on the front drive shafts for all FWD variants, and additional rear axle CV boots on AWD V6 models. GM Service Information for the ZB Commodore/Opel Insignia B also includes procedures for CV joint/boot service and replacement. Major aftermarket catalogues used across Australia and New Zealand list CV boot kits for the 2018 model, reinforcing that CV boots are fitted and serviceable on this vehicle.

On a 2018 Holden Commodore, the CV boots are the tough rubber or thermoplastic sleeves that seal the constant-velocity joints on the drive shafts. Their job is simple but critical: keep the special moly CV grease in, and dust, water, and road grit out. With the Commodore’s FWD and AWD setups, those joints articulate constantly as the wheels steer and the suspension moves, so intact boots are vital for quiet, smooth take-offs and cornering.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the CV boots every service or roughly every 10,000–15,000 kilometres. Look for cracks, splits, loose or missing clamps, and any grease flung around the inner rims, tyres, or under the guards. Early detection saves the joint from wear and saves a heap of cost down the track.

If a boot is torn but the joint hasn’t run dry or picked up grit, a quality replacement boot and fresh CV grease will usually sort it. Use new clamps and the correct spec grease, and refit with care to avoid twisting the boot. If the joint is noisy (clicking on full lock, shuddering on take-off) or the grease is contaminated, a complete shaft or joint assembly is often the better fix.

• Common signs it’s time to act:
  • Grease splatter around the wheel or under the bonnet line
  • Clicking or knocking during tight turns
  • Vibration on acceleration
  • Visible cracks or perished rubber

Pro tips for the ZB: check both sides while it’s on the hoist, AWD models also have rear boots worth a look, replace clamps whenever a boot comes off, and torque the axle fasteners to GM specs after any shaft work. A quick post-repair road test on full lock in both directions will confirm the joint’s happy and quiet.

Popular questions about 2018 Holden Commodore CV boots

How often should CV boots be checked on a ZB Commodore?
They’re best checked at every routine service or about every 10,000–15,000 km. Anyone doing tyres, brakes, or suspension work can also give them a quick look-over. Heat from the brakes and local road conditions can age boots faster, so regular eyes-on is cheap insurance.

Can just the boot be replaced, or does the whole driveshaft need changing?
If the boot has only just split and the joint hasn’t run dry or ingested grit, a new boot kit with fresh grease and clamps is fine. If there’s clicking on turns, blueing or play in the joint, or contaminated grease, a complete shaft or joint assembly is usually the reliable option.

What are the tell-tale symptoms of a failing CV boot or joint?
Grease sprayed around the inner wheel and guard, visible cracks in the boot, and clicking on full lock are the big giveaways. Left too long, you may feel vibration on acceleration as the joint wears. Sorting it early generally keeps costs down and drivability sweet.