Is this boot busted?

[All Outta Angst]

Is this boot broken? Do I need to replace it? Is it easy?

http://www.angelfire.com/ct3/mighty_highlights/images/broken.jpg


Would this explain a groaning noise I have been getting at low speed when turning the wheel?[/list]

[Turbomike61]

Yes it is broken. And judging from all the dirt, I'd change the whole tie rod end even if the boot alone is available.

[Aussie Audi Guy]

They dry out, You can inject grease into them - noise sounds like the correct symptoms....

they wear to a certain point & then you have to throw them away.... :cry:

[All Outta Angst]

Mmmm thast interesting, because as part of the roadworthy, when I bought my car a year ago. The Tie Rod ends were supposed to have been replaced (if i remember right, ill check the reciept)... they wouldn't die in less than 12 months would they? Did I get shafted?

Are they a PITA to replace?

Thanks for the answers!

[Turbomike61]

Reasonably easy, but it will need a wheel alignment, so I suggest you get it done professionally.

[ea2001]

The groaning noise could also be comming from the power steering system. Change the tie rod end though.
Derek

[All Outta Angst]

Well when I 1st heard the groaning I checked the PS fluid and noticed it was a little low (a bit under MIN, but not too much). So I filled it up. The noise went away for a while but its come back now.

What would this noise possibly indicate is wrong?

[Quattro Sport]

I have the same sort of noise when turning round-a-bouts and the like at low speeds too. I think in my case it have something to do with after i put my new wheels on. before i put them on it didnt happen, so im pretty sure its that in my case. my other wheels were 16" fondmetals and my new one are 18" same width as the fondmetals (7.5") and same width tyre so im not sure why the new ones would be making any noise. Could just be the tread pattern???

[All Outta Angst]

No this noise is in the steering, no doubt about it. Its took hard to describe noises on a forum tho :(