Thanks to a few searches here on Priuschat, I have determined that I most likely have a bad CV joint - a faint clicking sound while braking that varies with speed that happens with the car in drive, but not in neutral. I've also found instructions here on how to remove/replace the axle, but I'm wondering if it can be done without separating the tie rod end and removing the ball joint. On other cars I've managed to do this by unbolting the strut, which allowed the hub assembly to flop out enough to be able to slide the axle out of it. Anyone know if this is possible on the Prius? I have to replace my struts anyway so I was hoping to do it all at once and avoid dealing with potentially frozen suspension components. Thanks in advance.
Why even try this? It's not difficult to separate the tie rod end or the ball joint. Loosening the axle nut without air tools will be challenging though. Get the right tools and you're good to go. Harbor Freight has everything you need. And yes, I've done this before (just not on a Prius - yet).
Prius uses type of lover ball joint that is attached to control arm by two nuts and bolt. I have never seen any of that type rusting in place even if other suspension parts have. So I wouldn’t worry about lover ball joint. I’m pretty sure that you don’t have to remove tie rod end. Remember to remove speed sensor wire and brake line where they attach to strut and be careful not to damage them. Newer have had problem loosening axel nut either even without power tools. Just use long enough lever do it when car is on its wheels and have somebody press brake pedal.
I don't disagree with this, but I found through searches that several other members who had solved a difficult to diagnose noise during regen braking by replacing the axle. I figure for $50 for a used axle and an hour or so of my time it's worth a shot.
I have an impact wrench, so no worries on this. I don't have the 30mm 12 point socket, though, so at least I get to buy one new tool.
