What is this boot that's cracking on the inside of my wheel?

Hey guys, I was changing my brakes today and I noticed that this boot that connects to the wheel behind the rotor was beginning to crack quite a bit.

What is this part called exactly? Anyone have any idea on costs and how easy this is to replace if I did it on my own?

I will probably take it to a local shop, but just wanted to get an idea first.

Thanks!

 

That's your CV axle

and also, holy rust

 

CV axles are pretty easy to replace, if you can do your own brakes you can swap out a CV. Lots of write ups on here on how to do it.

OEM CVs are expensive but parts store ones are pretty cheap

 

Axle Condoms.
They get old too.

 

Great. Thank you! I'll look more into it.

 

Its crazy how the rubber boot is in better shape than the metal

 

Those cracks are likely the paint cracking from rust, but the metal is probably fine.
That part of the shaft is solid steel. I would leave it as is.
If the rubber boots crack grease will fly everywhere. Then it’s time to change.

 

Good to know! Thanks. I've seen some videos of some really worn out CV axles and this doesn't seem like it's quite there yet. I'll keep a close eye on it for now.