From a mechanical perspective, CV (Constant Velocity) joints play a crucial role in front-wheel drivers. For instance, they keep the drive shaft in the right place to ensure uniform straightness of movement.
Also, they export power from the transmission mechanisms to the wheels. This allows you to turn the car wheels with ease when you apply pressure to the gas pedal.
On the downside, CV joints can cause rapid wear of components and transmissions, especially if they’re not properly lubricated. As a result, the joint may malfunction, thus affecting the car maneuvering.
Luckily, applying the best CV joint grease regularly will keep the CV axle and joint functioning smoothly. Moreover, it will protect the transmission units and parts from premature wear caused by water or other contaminants.
But, which is the most effective CV joint grease, and how do you choose one for your car? Well, we’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll show you some of the top products in the lubricant market right now.
So, check them out to find the ideal high-quality grease for your vehicle!
Image | Name | Editor's Rating | Price |
 | Redline 80401 CV Joint Grease | ||
 | Liqui Moly Long-Life Cv Joint Grease | ||
 | Dorman 614-066 CV Joint Boot Grease | ||
 | Redline Oil CV-2 Synthetic Grease | ||
 | WD-40 Specialist High-Temp CV Joint Grease |
The 10 Best CV Joint Grease Reviews
1. Redline 80401 CV Joint Grease
First on our list is the 80401 CV-2 grease from the Redline, which outperforms even the best synthetic/ conventional lubricants. All thanks to the several outstanding CV joint grease specs it comes with!
For starters, the CV-2 formula is made up of an organic red moly compound. For this reason, it’s a superior grease to most lubricants that contain black moly disulfide. As for the packaging, this formula is available in a 14 oz. jar.
Another thing that makes this inner CV joint grease stand out is that it has excellent water resistance, high-temp stability, and extreme-pressure protection.
Specifically, it’s ideal for use in various applications whose temperature ranges from -100 deg F to 500 deg F. Such areas include; high angle CV joints, U-joints as well as high-performance wheel bearings.
In addition, this lubricant offers good corrosion & oxidation resistance, oil separation, and low evaporation. Even better, it has minimum impact on rubber seals, while its fluidity improves the bearing life by about 200 – 800%.
The only issue with this synthetic oil is that it darkens after use in high-temp applications. However, this darkening will not have a considerable effect on its performance.
All in all, it’s an excellent lubricant for CV joints. Besides, it’s a popular choice among most engine builders, technicians, and engineers in WRC, GP2, NHRA, and NASCAR.
Pros
- Excellent High-temperature tolerance.
- Superior water resistance
- Prevents oxidation & corrosion
- Increases the bearing lift by around 200-800%
- Ideal for a wide range of high speed/ high temp industrial applications
Cons
- Darkens after use in high-temp applications
2. Liqui Moly Long-Life Cv Joint Grease
Based in Germany, Liqui Moly is a chemical company that has been providing high additives, engine oils, and car care products for over 50 years. Their products are designed to extend the engine’s life. More notably, their lubricants ensure the best cleanliness and lubrication possible for engines and transmission components.
Well, their Long-Life grease for CV joints is no exception!
At first glance, this formula comes in a 100 g (3.5 oz.) tube. More importantly, it provides high load-bearing and outstanding lubrication properties, unlike normal lubricants.
And during use, it forms an ultra-thin, adhesive molybdenum sulfide film on the sliding surfaces. Best of all, this film remains effective for an extended period, even after breaking down the grease supply.
You’ll also note that this formula can withstand extremely high-pressure surface contact and high bearing pressures for a long time. That is because it contains an added MoS2 anti-friction modifier, making it suitable for use in maintenance, repair, and assembly that need a high-temp grease. In that case, you can use it in heavily loaded CV joints, spline shafts, guides, bearings, and threads.
In terms of temperature resistance, this grease operates at a temperature range of -65 deg C (-86 deg F) to 120 deg C (248 deg F). Also, it can withstand extremely high temperatures of up to 130 deg C, but only for a short time.
Pros
- Durable lubrication properties
- Outstanding protection during high heat and extreme load
- Provides limp-home properties
- Compatible with all types of CV drive joints
- Wide range of applications in vehicles and general machine lubrication
Cons
- May cause skin & eye irritation
3. Dorman 614-066 CV Joint Boot Grease
Dorman was established in 1918 to deliver a replacement for the car aftermarket. Since then, the company has developed into one of the leading auto parts manufacturers in the country. And their 614-066 lubricant is the best CV joint for ATV!
Unlike most auto part lubricants, it has very unique packaging. To be precise, the grease comes in a convenient 3 oz. pouch. This makes it easy to apply the right amount of lubricant to your car’s CV joints.
In addition, its formula is fortified with Molybdenum Disulfide, which is an anti-wear agent. At the same time, the agent gives it excellent mechanical stability as well as high heat resistance. Best of all, this formula is compatible with other lubricants, making it ideal for use in various applications.
So, apart from lubricating CV joints, you can use this grease for other general automotive applications as well. As an example, you can use it on U-joints, chassis parts, wheel bearing, cables, and ball joints.
As a bonus, this lubricant may also include a Dorman CV joint boot kit. This will play a crucial role in protecting the CV joints from moisture and destructive dirt. More importantly, you can use this kit to replace cracked CV boots.
Pros
- High heat resistance
- Provides durable lubrication
- Comes with a CV boot kit
- Easy to apply
Cons
- Petroleum-based formula
- Skin & eye irritant
4. Redline Oil 80402 CV-2 Synthetic Grease
80402 CV-2 synthetic grease is yet another incredible lubricant from Redline Oil that’s ideal for use on CV Joints. More importantly, similar to the other product from this brand we reviewed earlier, its formula has a red moly compound.
As mentioned earlier, this compound gives it better lubrication properties than black moly disulfide oils.
The only thing that differentiates this grease from the previous lubricant is the packaging. Specifically, Redline 80402 CV-2 grease is available in 14 fl oz (397 g) cartridge tubes. And not just one cartridge! Instead, this particular product comes with a total of 6 cartridge tubes.
Apart from packaging, the formula is similar to 80401 CV-2 greases in various aspects. For instance, it has an extremely high melting point and high-temperature stability.
In that regard, the lubricant can withstand temperatures ranging from -100 deg F to 500 deg F. For that, you can use it in high-temperature applications such as in CV joints, high-speed ball bearings, wheel bearings, and so on.
In addition, this synthetic lubricant has excellent severe-pressure protection, allowing it to withstand extreme loads. On top of that, it has outstanding water resistance, helping it out-perform the best conventional greases available.
As if that’s not enough, this formula exhibits outstanding resistance against corrosion and oxidation. At the same time, its fluidity allows it to extend the lifespan of your bearings by up to 200 0- 800%.
Moreover, it retains its consistency, even when subjected to extreme pressure and high-temperature conditions. This helps to extend the performance and durability of the lubricated components.
Pros
- Outstanding high-temperature stability
- Excellent water resistance and extreme-pressure protection
- Extends the bearing’s life up to 200%
- Provides better performance than the best synthetic/ conventional lubes
- Suitable for various high-temp applications
Cons
- Darkens after use in high-temp conditions
5. WD-40 Specialist High-Temp CV Joint Grease
WD-40 has one of the most interesting stories in the lubricant industry. Originally known as Rocket Chemical, the firm changed its name to WD-40 after attempting to develop a Water Displacement formula 40 times. Since then, they’ve developed various car care products including this Specialist High Temp Grease for CV joints.
As the name suggests, this grease is designed to protect moving components in heavy mechanical loads and high-temperature applications. Specifically, it can resist melting even when subjected to temperatures as high as 625 deg F. At the same time, it has excellent tolerances when exposed to cold weather conditions.
Another stand-out feature about this lubricant is that it’s intended for heavy-duty applications. For that, it’s ideal for use in heavy-duty trucks and construction equipment. However, you can also use it around your home for everyday applications.
Lastly, like most formulas from WD-40, this grease provides excellent protection against corrosion. In terms of appearance and chemical composition, this Lithium grease for the CV joint has a green color and contains some chemical compounds.
These chemical compounds include; zinc-based additive, additive, and petroleum distillates. Nonetheless, it’s VOC compliant in all the 50 states across the country.
Pros
- Comes with ten 14 fl oz. cartridges
- Water-resistant
- Great performance under high heat and heavy mechanical loads
- Excellent corrosion protection
- VOC-compliant in all states
Cons
- Contains chemical additives
6. Valvoline Multi-Vehicle Moly-Fortified Grease
Lubricants help truck and car owners achieve a prolonged life and maximum performance for their vehicles. This multi-vehicle grease from Valvoline is no different! Besides, this premium-quality grease is designed to ensure maximum performance and protection in CV joints.
Here’s how it accomplishes that!
To start, this superior lubricant is fortified with moly (molybdenum disulfide). Moly is a certain type of mineral that is added to grease formulas to enhance its lubrication ability.
Moreover, these minerals provide excellent anti-wear and extreme-pressure protection. As a result, it’s a great EP moly grease for CV joints, chassis, disc-brake wheel bearings, suspension systems & universal joints.
Also, like most CV joint lubricants, this formula has an incredible tolerance against water and high temperatures. To be precise, it can withstand temperatures ranging from 0 deg F to 375 deg F. Moreover, this formula is simple to install to the grease gun since it comes in a convenient 14 oz. cartridge.
On the downside, this formula contains chemicals that are prohibited in some states like California. In addition, it can easily stain clothes, workbenches, driveways, and other surfaces because of the molybdenum in its formula.
Other than that, it’s a great CV joint grease that’s highly recommended for use in Mercury, Lincoln, and Ford vehicles.
Pros
- Outstanding water resistance
- Suitable for both industrial and automotive application
- Excellent protection against extreme pressure
- withstand temperature ranging from 10 – 375 deg F
- Recommended for Mercury, Lincoln, and Ford vehicles
- Easy to install in the grease gun
- Provides anti-wear protection
Cons
- Not sold in some states like California
- Easily stains clothes and other surfaces
7. Maxima CS80916 High-Temperature Waterproof Grease
Maxima presents CS80916 waterproof grease, which is a smooth, dark blue lithium-based lubricant. More notably, its formula has an NLGI grade 2 consistency and a high-density polymer. These properties enable it to provide optimum performance, even when subjected to the most ambient temperature conditions.
Talking of temperature, this formula has an exceptional ability to resist high heat. For instance, it remains effective and stable at temperatures ranging from -20 to 560 deg F. Therefore, it will not thin out under normal application.
Better still, this waterproof grease has outstanding tolerance to water washout. Instead, it clings to metal surfaces under extreme conditions, helping to reduce the friction coefficient effectively.
In addition, its formula contains corrosion and rust inhibitors. This further enhances its protection and performance under various extreme operating conditions.
Another benefit offered by this formula is that it’s easy to apply due to its smooth consistency. Also, it’s quite durable, thanks to the additives added to its non-leaded mixture. At the same time, these non-leaded additives ensure high load-bearing ability and excellent protection against wear and oxidation.
Finally, this high-temp lithium compound is ideal for a wide range of applications. So, apart from lubricating CV joints, you can also use it on wheel bearings, and disc brakes. Moreover, it’s suitable for use in saltwater environments for hubs and boat trailer axles.
Pros
- Excellent protection against saltwater corrosion
- Ideal for marine applications
- Superior protection across various applications and temperatures
- Water-resistant
- Easy to apply
- Outstanding extreme-pressure and anti-wear performance
- Good mechanical stability
Cons
- No cons
8. GREASECO Heavy-Duty Moly Grease
GREASECO grease is another popular option, especially among mining and construction equipment manufacturers. Thanks to its formula ability to meet the heavy shocking loading needs in such applications.
Besides, its lithium-based formula is fortified with 3 percent molybdenum Disulfide. As mentioned earlier, molybdenum Disulfide increases the formula’s lubricating ability. This improves its performance, particularly when used in heavy-duty applications.
Moving on, like any other CV joint grease available, this formula provides exceptional protection against high temperatures. Even better, it has an excellent ability to withstand heavy shock loading and extreme pressures. These properties play a crucial role in extending the longevity of parts subjected to such conditions.
It’s also worth mentioning that this CV joint grease doesn’t wash out easily under intense water ingress. Moreover, it has great pumpability, even at low temperatures. This makes the best CV joint grease for use in centralized lubrication systems.
Regarding the packaging, this moly grease is available in a 14 oz cartridge. More importantly, the cartridge has a universal fit. For that reason, you can easily install it on most automatic and manual grease guns from various brands. Some of these brands include; Lucas, DEWALT, MILWAUKEE, Lock N’ Lube, etc.
On top of all those features, this lubricant is ideal for use in various applications. For instance, you can use it in trucks, vehicles, excavators, hydraulic shovels, and water pump bearings among others.
Pros
- Compatible with most manual & automatic grease guns
- Ideal for a wide range of heavy-duty applications
- Great pumpability
- Withstands heavy shock loading & extreme pressures
- Excellent protection against high temperatures
- Provides anti-wear properties
Cons
- Slightly tacky
9. SWEPCO 101 Moly Grease
Over the years, SWEPCO 101 Moly grease has emerged as one of the best-selling lubricants from this brand. And, believe us, that’s not a coincidence! Instead, this lubricant delivers proven performance, both in high and low temperatures, making a great choice for CV joints!
On top of that, it’s highly versatile, meaning you can use it for other applications as well. For instance, it’s a perfect grease for other tasks like lubricating U-joints and wheel bearings for racing and off-road vehicles.
That’s not all! Due to its moly protection and wide temperature range, this grease is suitable for use on 5th wheels. Specifically, it can withstand temperatures that are as low as -34 deg F without thickening.
Moreover, the moly additives adhere to the metal surfaces, offering extra protection against extreme pressure and wear. To be precise, Moly Disulfide allows it to withstand the extreme pressure of up to 500,000 pounds/ Sq.
Still, on temperature tolerance, this formula can withstand heat as high as 500 deg F. But when the temperature exceeds this limit, the lubricant evaporates.
All in all, 500 deg F heat tolerance is still a great temperature range. For that, you can use it in other high-heat applications like concrete plants, paving equipment, brick kilns, wood kilns, etc.
You’ll also note that this moly CV joint grease contains Libium. This is a synergistic proprietary combination of ingredients that provide various benefits. These include; corrosion & rust resistance, additional anti-wear properties, and antioxidants to increase the formula’s longevity.
Pros
- High heat and corrosion resistance
- Cold temperature performance
- Friction reduction
- Non-melt grease
- Withstands up to 500,00 lbs/ sq. in of extreme pressure
- Contains Librium, an anti-wear, and anti-friction additive
- Doesn’t pound/washout
- Outstanding metal adhesion quality
- Multi-purpose lubricant
- Comes in a standard cartridge tube
Cons
- Evaporates when subjected to temperatures above 500 deg F
10. GREASECO Red & Tacky Lithium Grease
Manufactured by GREASECO, this red and tacky grease is another popular option that will guarantee the future reliability of your equipment. Besides, apart from being the best CV joint grease, it’s suitable for many other applications.
With its improved heavy-duty performance, you can also use it in the mining, trucking, agricultural, farming, and construction sectors.
With that in mind, let’s check out some unique features exhibited by this formula!
As you’d expect, this lithium complex formula provides excellent protection against high-temperature conditions. This is because it contains a heavy-duty ISO 460 viscosity base oil that increases its overall temperature resistance.
In addition, the formula is fortified with a unique additive package. This additive offers higher film strength, as well as anti-wear and extreme pressure properties.
As a result, this lubricant will significantly extend the durability of critical components subjected to moderate loads and pressures. On the same note, this lubricant has excellent mechanical shear stability and weld load score. This helps it protect your equipment against any potential threat of seizing or galling.
To protect your equipment further, this heavy-duty lubricant has outstanding water washout properties. For that reason, it will stay in place for a long time, providing excellent protection against corrosion and protection.
In terms of packaging, this grease comes in a pack of ten 14 oz standard carriage. More importantly, the tubes are fully shrink-wrapped to prevent broken or loose caps during transportation.
Pros
- Long storage life
- Great mechanical stability
- Excellent protection and rust & corrosion
- Ideal for automotive, industrial, and agricultural applications
- Water-resistant
Cons
- No cons
What to Look for Before Buying a CV Joint Grease
With so many lubricants available in the market, finding the best CV joint grease isn’t always a simple task. Nonetheless, certain factors will help you make the perfect option. Some of those factors include;
Type of CV Joint grease
Although there are many types of greases available, not every option is suitable for use in CV joints. However, the following types provide outstanding performance in CV joints;
Multi-purpose grease. A general-purpose grease contains properties of more than a specialized lubricant. More importantly, they’re suitable for use in different places. This makes them quite popular among hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts.
Moly EP grease. Moly Ep grease contains molybdenum disulfide, which is usually referred to as moly. On the contrary, EP is an acronym for Extreme pressure.
This type of grease provides better performance than multi-purpose grease when subjected to high pressure. Yet you can use it for general applications and other places with high pressure and sliding motions like ball joints and U-joints.
Lithium grease. With more than 70% market share, lithium-based lubricant is the most popular type of grease across the globe. At the same, they contain various additives, making them suitable for specific applications.
As you know, additives give the grease extra performance capabilities. As an example, they prevent damage to the metal surface. Even better, some additives help the grease operate at extreme temperatures and pressure.
Temperature tolerance
First, the best grease for CV joint should have excellent ability to withstand high temperatures. In other words, it should not melt when subjected to high heat.
Similarly, the lubricant should remain stable and soft under cold temperatures. Both cases will eliminate the need for regular cleaning and greasing.
As far as temperature tolerance is concerned, lithium-based grease is better than sodium- or calcium-based lubricants
Pressure performance
The CV Joint grease’s pressure performance determines how it performs in certain applications. In general, the grease can get too thin or shear when subjected to too much pressure. In most cases, this happens under sudden shock or consistent operating conditions.
Fortunately, CV joint greases are engineered to handle high-pressure applications. This ensures that the lubricants adhere well to the metal surface when subjected to extreme loads. That said, Moly greases are considered to have the highest pressure performance/ tolerance.
Water resistance
Moving on, the ideal grease for CV joints should have exceptional ability to provide water protection on the surface it’s applied on. In essence, this property depends on the oil content of the lubricant.
All in all, water-resistant grease protects metal components from corrosion and rust, extending their durability. Also, this feature will come in handy when your car is exposed to saltwater from time to time.
Consistency/ Viscosity
Viscosity refers to the internal friction rate with a fluid/ lubricant, allowing it to resist flow. Generally speaking, grease has 2 major ingredients, a thickener, and a lubricant.
Thickener gives the fluid a consistency to keep it around the moving component, instead of just flowing or leaking away. On the other hand, the lubricant helps to fight friction.
That aside, different types of CV joint grease have viscosity ratings ranging from 0 to 6. A 0-rated lubricant is almost liquid, while a 6-rated grease is very hard.
Most CV joint lubricants have an NLGI 2 rating, which feels more like peanut butter. NLGI is an acronym for the National Lubricating Grease Institute.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much grease should you apply to CV joints?
An average Constant Velocity joint takes about 100 to 200 g of CV grease. However, this may vary from one car model to another.
2. How long do CV joints last?
CV joints are very durable and don’t need any maintenance, provided the CV joint boot isn’t damaged. Generally speaking, CV joints can last for about 70,000 – 130,000 miles. Nonetheless, it’s important to inspect the joints regularly to ensure that they’ve adequate lubricant.
3. Can you mix lithium and moly grease?
Moly and lithium-based greases shouldn’t be mixed since they are incompatible. Specifically, lithium grease is a solid-free lubricant, while moly (molybdenum Disulfide) is a solid additive. Therefore, mixing these products will cause them to lose their lubricating properties.
4. What is so unique about greases for Constant Velocity (CV) joints?
A CV joint grease has many unique properties compared to regular lubricants. For instance, the grease has exceptional water washout resistance, providing superior protection against corrosion and rust.
Also, it’s very shear stable for both low and high temperatures. More importantly, this type of grease is mainly used in automotive applications that are subjected to high loads.
Conclusion
The CV joint grease is a special technical fluid that provides various benefits to your car parts. For instance, it will protect the metal components in your car from corrosion, which can cause cavities in the CV joints.
As a result, you’ll notice an audible knock when turning your car’s steering wheel and the transmission efficiency will be significantly reduced. Moreover, this will hinder the free rotation of elements by increasing the friction coefficient.
Luckily, you can avoid these problems by applying the best CV Joint grease to your car. Best of all, the selection process will now be quite simple, seeing that we’ve listed the top products in the market at the moment.
