Location of hinges on the car (bottom view): 1 - outer left constant velocity joint (CV joint); 2 - gear shift rod joint; 3 - outer right constant velocity joint; 4 - internal constant velocity joints.
Replace torn, cracked or loose protective covers, otherwise water and dirt getting into the hinges will quickly put them out of order.
Inspect the shift linkage boot.
Inspect the protective covers of the internal...
...and external constant velocity joints.
To check the entire surface of the covers, turn the drive shafts by the wheels. The gearshift lever should be in neutral.
