A clicking or knocking noise on full lock on the Ford Transit Connect 2017 is almost always caused by a worn outer CV joint. The CV joint cannot be replaced separately on this vehicle — the entire driveshaft must be replaced as a unit.
This job requires the hub nut to be undone and the lower suspension arm to be disconnected to allow the hub to move out of the way. Gearbox oil will escape when the old shaft is removed so have a container ready.
When You Need This Job
- Clicking or knocking noise on full steering lock
- Noise gets worse when turning sharply at low speed
- Split CV joint boot visible
- Play in the outer CV joint when inspected
Tools You'll Need
Step-by-Step Guide
Remove the wheel and undertray
Remove the front wheel. The undertray is held by T30 Torx bolts all around — undo them and slide it out. This gives full access underneath for levering the driveshaft out.
Remove the lower arm pinch bolt
Use an 18mm socket on the nut and a T55 Torx on the other side. The T55 holds the splined bolt still while you spin the 18mm nut off. Once the nut is removed use a copper hammer to knock the pinch bolt out. Knock the lower arm down to release it from the hub.
Remove the hub nut — 32mm socket
Undo the 32mm hub nut. Give the centre of the driveshaft a tap to ensure it is free to slide through the hub.
Lever the driveshaft out of the gearbox
Place a lever bar behind the driveshaft inner joint where it enters the gearbox. A sharp lever will pop the circlip and release it. Catch any gearbox oil in a container.
Inspect the old shaft
The fault will be in the outer CV joint — check for play and condition. A split or missing boot will have allowed grease out and dirt in, destroying the bearings.
Fit the new driveshaft — inner end first
Check the new shaft has a C-clip on the inner end — this is what holds it in the gearbox. Line up the splines and knock the inner end into the gearbox with a copper hammer until the tone changes confirming it is seated.
Refit the outer end into the hub
Slide the outer splined end through the hub. Fit the new hub nut finger tight to keep it in position.
Refit the lower arm
Pull the lower arm down and align it with the hole in the hub. Tap it back in with a copper hammer. Refit the pinch bolt — T55 Torx to hold it, 18mm nut to tighten.
Torque the hub nut
Torque the hub nut to 80 Nm plus 90 degrees. Refit the undertray and wheel. Torque wheel nuts. Check and top up gearbox oil level if needed.
Torque Specifications
After fitting the new shaft check the gearbox oil level. Insert a piece of wire to the fill hole level — if it comes out wet the level is correct.
🛒 Shop Parts & Tools for This Job
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
