Hi. This is my first proper post on the forum as I have only joined today after googling my problem.

Basically, I hear a knocking sound coming from the front of the car whilst cornering, usually while accelerating. This comes from either the driver or passenger side depending on which way I'm turning. I took it to a garage who said it sounded like the CV joints needed replacing.

Now, this is where my dilemma starts. I have a friend who has offered to replace these for me if I buy the parts and help him out. I fully trust the guy as he pretty much rebuilt his MkII Golf but I don't know whether or not I need the inner or outer joints. Is there any easy way of finding out? Also, is it something which someone who is not qualified could do? I really don't want to be forking out £200+ just before Christmas unless I really have to.

Any help on this would be much appreciated!

Most likely the outer joints (which are the ones affected by steering).

Personally I draw the line at changing oil filters and plugs, brake shoes in an emergency situation. But it's an everyday mechanics job that to my knowledge doesn't need special training or special tools, so if your mate has rebuilt a Golf I would say he'll fix it.

Just be sure to get all necessary mounting parts, take the opportunity to mount new rubber boots and so on.

And since I've never done it myself, maybe you should take my advice for what it's worth, not more, and wait for more advice here!

Apologies for being off-topic for a second: 500 posts SwedishSkoda!

Yes, most mechanics who can replace a cylinder head gasket (that sort of level of complexity) will be able to replace CV joints, so have trust in your friend

The joints themselvs are probably replacable on their own without having to replace the whole shaft and I doubt they're particularly expensive. I'll have a look in my Haynes...

Yes they are and :iagree: about renewing all the gaiters/boots too.