Inner CV Joint, Checking: Removing

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan, 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan, 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan, and 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The joint must be disassembled for the following work:

Replace the grease if it is very dirty
For checking the contact surfaces for wear
For checking the bearings for wear

-- Tilt the ball hub and ball cage.

Fig 1: Direction To Press Out Ball Joint Housing

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

-- Remove the joint in the direction of the arrow.

-- Remove the balls from the cage.

NOTE:

Ball hub and joint piece are paired. Do not interchange.

-- Flip out ball hub from ball cage via the ball race -arrows-.

Fig 2: Flip Out Ball Hub From Ball Cage Via Running Path Of Ball -Arrows-

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

-- Check the joint, ball hub, ball cage and balls for small broken off depressions (pitting) and chafing.

Excessive circumferential backlash in joint makes itself noticed via tip-in shock. Joint must be replaced in such cases. Flattening and running marks on the balls are no reason to replace the joint.