CV Axle, Rubber Boots and Ball Joint
CV axles drive the front wheels and allow the wheels to turn while driving in any direction. The complex set of bearing surfaces that allow these actions to occur are lubricated and sealed within rubber boots. If the boots are compromised, it will soon lead to failure of the bearings. Inspect the boots for brittleness, cracks and tears. If any are present, you’ll need to replace that axle sooner rather than later. If you’re hearing unusual sounds from the front end, especially while turning, and they’re consistent with speed of travel, it’s likely a sign of CV axle failure. The lower ball joint is also shown in this photo. Wear of this pivot point affects wheel alignment, can give you a little vague feeling in the steering, and might even give you audible clues when turning into and out of a driveway.