New driveshaft retaining fasteners will be required on installation. To remove the axle shaft, first, take off the wheel trim or hub cap if applicable, and loosen the axle shaft retaining nut while the vehicle is on its wheels, also loosening the wheel bolts. Chock the front wheels, raise the rear of the vehicle, and support it on jackstands before removing the relevant rear wheel. If removing the left-hand axle shaft, detach the exhaust system tailpipe for better access. Loosen and remove the left and right-hand stabilizer bar mountings, pivoting the bar downwards. Next, remove the axle shaft nut, make alignment marks, and then loosen and remove the bolts securing the axle shaft constant velocity joint to the
Differential unit, recovering any retaining plates if equipped. Position the axle shaft clear of the flange and tie it to the vehicle underbody with wire, ensuring it does not hang under its own weight to avoid damaging the CV joint. Withdraw the axle shaft outer constant velocity joint from the hub assembly, using a soft-faced hammer to carefully tap it out if it is tight, or press it out with a suitable tool if necessary, then remove the axle shaft from underneath the vehicle. For installation, reverse the removal steps, applying a drop of clean oil to the new axle shaft nut where it contacts the flange before installing and tightening it to the specified torque. If needed, wait until the vehicle is lowered to the ground to tighten the nut fully, then stake it using a hammer and punch. Finally, install new inner joint retaining bolts and plates if equipped, tightening them to the specified torque.