Q: What steps should be followed when replacing a CV boot on the 2009 BMW 335i?
A: When boot repair is needed, apply an original complete CV joint boot repair kit consists of a new boot, clamping bands, special lubricant and a new inner CV joint circlip which is available from the BMW dealer parts department. Since the outer CV joint fixed directly on the axle shaft, it is not separable, therefore the outer CV boot has to be replaced 'along with' the inner joint & boot. If the CV joints are worn or defective, a complete rebuilt axle shaft can be got from an authorized BMW dealer's parts department. First, you will want to take out the axle shaft, then take the boot on the inner joint and on a bench cut off the old boot clamps, then take a suitable tool and take off the boot, using a clean rag take the old grease off the joint and the shaft. Disassemble the dust cover of the inner CV joint and label for reassembly purposes, the position of the ball hub, the ball cage, and the CV joint. Lever the circlip off, support the inner hub of the suspension in the special manner and push the axle shaft out from the joint, additionally, removing all the remaining old lubricant off the shaft pin and inner joint pin. If disassembly for cleaning and inspection is made, it is advised to matchmark inner and outer race and intermediate ball cage to ease the reassembly. Clean grease and check the CV joint for galling, pitting and other signs of wear or damage as smooth surfaces or visible ball tracks do not mean the need for replacement of CV joint, though if it has overheated evidence of lack of lubrication it should be replaced. In general, when replacing the outer CV joint boot, the old boot clamps might have to be cut off, the old boot removed and the old grease wiped off before the joint can be carefully separated from the axle so that the new outer CV joint boot can be slid onto the axle shaft. One should avoid the ball hub to pivot too far in the outer ring to evacuate the balls and before the installation of each small boot clamp, one should "burp" the boot by flexing the CV joint with the assistance of a small screwdriver. Replace all new boot clamps and apply a heavy duty locking compound on the inner drive axle splines, but not on the balls in the joint. Slide the inner CV joint boot over the axle shaft and using a special tool supporting the shaft, press the inner hub of the CV joint onto the shaft, install a new circlip along with new boot clamps. To prevent the removal of the dust cover, use sealing gel and fix it on the CV joint before reinstallation noting that the reinstallation process will be the reverse of the removal process.