Every 16,000 km or 12 months.
1. Rubber boots on the drive shafts are important because they protect the constant velocity joints from dirt, water and foreign particles, thus preventing damage to the joints. External dirt can cause the material of the boot to deteriorate, so it makes sense to occasionally wash the boots with soap and water.
2. After raising the vehicle and placing it on supports, turn the steering wheel to the stop, and then slowly rotate each front wheel in turn. Check the condition of the outer rubber boots of the constant velocity joints by opening the folds (see Fig. 16.2). Pay attention to the presence of cracks or destruction of the rubber, as such defects can lead to loss of lubrication and penetration of water and dirt into the joint. Also check the condition and reliability of the clamps. Repeat the same checks for the inner joints. If damage is found, the boots must be replaced (Chapter 8).
3. At the same time, check the condition of the joints themselves. To do this, hold the drive shaft and try to turn the wheel. Repeat the check for the inner joints. To do this, hold the fork of the inner joint and try to turn the drive shaft.
4. The presence of play in the joint indicates wear of the joint, wear of the splines of the drive shaft, or loosening of the drive shaft fastening nut.
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