Questions and Answers

CV Joint Noise?

Q. I have a 1989 Honda Prelude. When I turn the steering wheel it makes a terrible loud metal screetching noise. The noise started a couple of months ago, it would start and then stop. But now the noise is constant and I don't want to drive the car because it is so loud. There is no problem with driving the car, it just makes noise now turning corners.

I was told that I would have to replace the passenger side ball joint. Since this car is so old, do I have to get the part from the Honda dealership? Can I have just the boot replaced?

Shelly

A. A ball joint will not make a squealing noise. It would be more of a clunk or bang. The Constant Velocity (CV) joint would be the more likely cause of the symptoms you are describing. That's not to say that the ball joint can't be bad as well, just not the cause of the noise.

The CV boots are replaceable seperatly, but if the joints are making noise then they are shot and need to be replaced. At this point it may be more cost effective to replace the old axle with a rebuilt axle. That will come with two new cv joints and boots. These axles are readily available at any auto parts store. You may need to order it and if you do, it's generally next day.