How to Replace a Toyota Corolla Axle Shaft

The axle shaft helps to transfer power from the transmission to the wheels. It does this by connecting to the transaxle of the Corolla at one end and the wheel hub assembly at the other end. There are two flexible joints on each axle shaft that reduce stress on the shaft and allow it to "bend" so that the Corolla can turn left and right. Over time, the boot that protects the joints will rip and the grease will leak out, causing the joint to grind and eventually fail. When this happens, you'll have to replace the axle shaft.

Difficulty:

Challenging

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Tire wrench
• Jack
• 2 jack stands
• Pliers
• Spindle nut socket
• Socket wrench with socket set
• Impact wrench with air compressor
• Tie rod end puller
• Flat-head screwdriver
• Zip ties
• Hard grease
• New cotter pin

1. • 1

     Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheel. Turn the lug nuts 45 degrees to break them loose.

   • 2

     Engage the emergency brake.

   • 3

     Jack the Corolla up into the air using the front jack point located behind the radiator.

   • 4

     Place jack stands under each of the front pinch welds and lower the Tacoma onto the jack stands.

   • 5

     Finish removing the lug nuts.

   • 6

     Remove the spindle nut with an impact wrench and the spindle socket.

   • 7

     Remove the brake caliper mounting bolts.

   • 8

     Secure the caliper to the coil springs.

   • 9

     Pull the rotor off the hub assembly.

   • 10

     Remove the cotter pin from the axle shaft nut with pliers.

   • 11

     Remove the axle shaft nut using the impact wrench.

   • 12

     Loosen and remove the tie rod bolt.

   • 13

     Move the knuckle and hub assembly out of the way and remove the axle from the transaxle.

   • 14

     Pull the axle shaft out of the hub assembly.

   • 15

     Install the new axle shaft. Installation of the axle shaft is the reverse of removal.