Suspension Parts to Replace When Replacing a CV Axle

Replacing a CV axle is a common repair on front-wheel-drive vehicles, and it often involves disconnecting several suspension components to access the axle. While you could simply swap the axle and reassemble everything, many experienced mechanics recommend taking this opportunity to inspect and replace certain suspension parts. Doing so can save you a second alignment, reduce labor costs down the road, and ensure your front end is tight and reliable. Here’s a rundown of which suspension parts you should consider replacing when you replace a CV axle.

Key Suspension Parts to Consider Replacing

Axle Nut and Washer

Technically, the axle nut and its washer are part of the CV axle assembly, but they’re often overlooked. Most manufacturers recommend using a new axle nut every time you remove it. The nut is typically a staked or crimp type that deforms during installation. Reusing it can lead to insufficient clamping force, which may allow the axle to loosen over time. The same goes for the washer if it’s a single-use design. A fresh nut and washer cost only a few dollars and provide peace of mind.

Strut Assembly or Shock Absorber

While the strut itself doesn’t always need replacing, the act of removing the axle often requires unbolting the lower strut from the steering knuckle. This is a good time to check the strut for leaks, damage, or excessive bounce. If your struts are over 50,000 miles old or show signs of wear, consider swapping them while everything is apart. Replacing a strut later would mean disassembling the same area again. For vehicles with separate shock absorbers, similar logic applies—check for wear and replace if needed.

Control Arm and Bushings

The lower control arm connects the wheel hub to the vehicle frame and typically has a ball joint at the outer end and bushings at the inner end. When you replace a CV axle, you usually separate the lower ball joint from the steering knuckle. If the ball joint is loose or the control arm bushings are cracked, now is the perfect time to replace the entire control arm. Many aftermarket control arms come pre-assembled with new bushings and ball joints, saving you the hassle of pressing parts in. Installing a fresh control arm ensures your suspension geometry stays accurate and reduces future clunks.

Ball Joints

If you decide not to replace the entire control arm, at least inspect the ball joints. With the control arm disconnected, you can feel for excessive play by moving the ball joint stud. Any noticeable looseness warrants replacement. Ball joints that fail catastrophically can cause the wheel to fold under the vehicle, so erring on the side of caution is smart. Many mechanics replace both lower ball joints when doing a CV axle, since one side is already apart.

Tie Rod Ends

The outer tie rod end is often separated from the steering knuckle during axle removal to allow the knuckle to swing out. After years of service, tie rod ends develop play. Grab the tie rod and see if there’s any axial or radial movement. If you feel slack, replace the outer tie rod end. The inner tie rod is less commonly replaced unless it shows wear, but check it too. Replacing a tie rod end now means you’ll need an alignment anyway (because you’re disturbing the steering geometry). Doing it later would require another alignment, so bundle it in.

Sway Bar End Links

Sway bar end links link the sway bar to the strut or control arm. During axle replacement, you may need to disconnect the end link to gain clearance. These are inexpensive parts that wear out frequently. If your end links are original or have over 40,000 miles, just replace them. A bad end link causes clunking over bumps and can affect handling. They’re cheap and easy to swap when the suspension is already partially dismantled.

Hub and Bearing Assembly

The CV axle passes through the wheel hub, which is supported by a bearing pressed into the steering knuckle. While you don’t have to remove the hub to replace the axle on most vehicles, you might need to remove the axle nut and push the axle out of the hub. This is a great opportunity to check the wheel bearing for roughness or play. Spin the hub by hand—if it feels grindy or has too much play, replace the hub and bearing assembly. Many newer vehicles have bolt-on hub units that are straightforward to swap. A roaring or vibrating wheel bearing will only get worse, and fixing it now avoids another trip to the shop.

Signs That Suspension Parts Need Replacement

• Clunking or popping noises when turning or going over bumps indicate worn ball joints, tie rods, or sway bar links.
• Uneven tire wear suggests alignment issues often caused by worn control arm bushings or ball joints.
• Vibration in the steering wheel can be from a bad wheel bearing or worn tie rod ends.
• Excessive play in the steering means tie rods are likely worn.
• Leaking fluid from a strut means it’s time to replace it.

If you notice any of these signs while inspecting your vehicle, you have a clear reason to replace those parts now.

Why Replace These Parts Together?

The main advantage is labor efficiency. Many of these procedures require similar disassembly steps—removing the wheel, brake caliper, and various suspension links. Doing them all at once means you pay labor only once. Additionally, you’ll only need one alignment, not several. Alignment costs add up, and each time you disconnect a tie rod or control arm, you disturb the alignment. Coordinating replacements saves money and ensures the front end is refreshed.

Another benefit is improved safety and ride quality. Worn suspension components cause vague handling, excessive tire wear, and can even lead to loss of control in extreme cases. By replacing suspect parts proactively, you restore the vehicle’s original handling characteristics.

Practical Recommendation Before Starting the Job

Before you begin replacing the CV axle, do a thorough inspection of all the suspension parts mentioned above. Check for torn rubber boots, loose joints, and damaged bushings. Make a list of any parts that need replacing, and order them along with the new axle. Often, you can buy a suspension kit that includes ball joints, tie rod ends, and sway bar links at a discount. For control arms and struts, consider buying complete assemblies to reduce installation time. Remember to pick up new axle nuts and cotter pins if needed.

If you’re not comfortable diagnosing wear, have a professional mechanic inspect the vehicle. They can pinpoint exactly which parts are worn and which are still serviceable. This step prevents unnecessary spending while ensuring all worn parts get replaced.

Final Thoughts

Replacing a CV axle is a great opportunity to give your front suspension a refresh. By also replacing worn axle nuts, ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings, sway bar links, and wheel bearings, you can avoid future repairs and alignments. Always prioritize safety over saving a few dollars—worn suspension parts compromise control and stability. If budget allows, address all worn items at once. The result will be a quieter, smoother ride and a vehicle that feels tight on the road.