Parts for your 2018 Volkswagen Amarok-Cv joint

2018 Volkswagen Amarok CV Joint – what it does and when to service it

Yes, a CV joint is relevant to the 2018 Volkswagen Amarok — on 4Motion (4x4) models it’s fitted on the front driveshafts. This is confirmed by Volkswagen’s official workshop documentation (erWin/ELSA front axle driveshaft procedures) and the Volkswagen ETKA parts catalogue for Amarok (type 2H, MY2018), which list front driveshafts with inner and outer constant-velocity joints. Rear-wheel-drive (2WD) Amarok variants use a solid rear axle and a propshaft with universal joints, so they don’t have front CV joints.

On a 2018 Amarok 4Motion, each front driveshaft uses two CV joints to deliver smooth drive through suspension travel and steering lock. They let the front wheels turn and go up and down without vibration, which keeps the ute feeling tight and planted on-road and confident off the beaten track. The rubber boots (gaiters) around the joints keep special moly grease inside and dust, water, and grit out — that’s the real heart of CV joint longevity.

There’s no fixed replacement interval for CV joints — they’re serviced on condition. The smartest move is to check the CV boots at every routine service (10,000–15,000 km for most owners) and after heavy off-road work, beach runs, or water crossings. If a boot is torn, split, or flicking grease onto the inner rim or under the guards, get it re-booted straight away. Catching a damaged boot early usually saves the joint.

• Typical warning signs:
  • Clicking or clacking on full lock under throttle
  • Shudder or vibration on take-off or under load
  • Grease splatter around the inside of the wheel or chassis
  • Knocking over corrugations or tight manoeuvres
• Good practice on replacement:
  • Use quality, model-correct CV boots and moly CV grease
  • Renew single-use fasteners (hub nuts, circlips) and torque to spec
  • Have the wheel alignment checked if suspension has been disturbed
  • After deep water or mud, clean and re-check boots and clamps

Look after the boots and a genuine-quality Amarok CV joint can run for hundreds of thousands of kilometres. Let grit in, and it can wear quickly — so it pays to keep an eye under the ute.

FAQs

Does every 2018 Amarok have CV joints?
4Motion (4x4) models do — they use CV joints on the front driveshafts. The 2WD Amarok runs a solid rear axle and does not use front CV joints.

How long do CV joints last on a 2018 Amarok?
With intact boots and clean grease, many go well past 150,000–300,000 km. The usual failure point is a damaged boot that lets in water and grit, so regular inspections are key.

Is it safe to drive with a clicking CV joint?
Not ideal. A clicking joint can deteriorate and may eventually fail, especially under load and steering lock. Short trips to reach a workshop are usually fine, but get it checked promptly.