| Feature | Genuine Nissan P318097 | Aftermarket Boot Kits | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | High-grade Japanese EPDM rubber | Varies (Thermoplastic is common) | | Fitment | Perfect; designed for your axle ribs | Good, but may require trimming | | Clamps | OEM click-ear clamps | Often screw-band or zip-tie style (inferior) | | Price | $30 - $50 | $15 - $25 | | Longevity | 5-7 years | 2-4 years (for cheap brands) |
So, what exactly is the ? In the simplest terms, this is an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) part number specifically issued by Nissan North America. It corresponds to a critical component of your vehicle’s front axle assembly: the Front Drive Shaft Boot Kit . nissan p318097
A: This is an older, discontinued OEM number. It has likely been superseded. Go to a Nissan dealership parts counter or an online OEM retailer like NissanPartsDeal or CourtesyParts. Search by the newer superseded number if necessary. Conclusion The Nissan P318097 is a small rubber part with a massive responsibility. It is the unsung hero protecting your CV joint from the hostile road environment. If you own a late-90s Nissan Altima, Maxima, or Sentra, spending $40 on this genuine repair kit now can save you $400 on a new axle and alignment later. | Feature | Genuine Nissan P318097 | Aftermarket
A: This specific kit typically fits the wheel-side (outer) CV joint on both the left and right axles for the models listed above. It does not fit the inner (transmission-side) joint, which uses a larger, different boot. A: This is an older, discontinued OEM number
Because the labor to replace a boot is high (1.5 to 2.5 hours), buying the genuine Nissan P318097 is worth the extra $15. You do not want to repeat this job in 18 months because a cheap Chinese rubber boot failed again. Frequently Asked Questions Q: Can I drive with a torn P318097 boot? A: Yes, for a few days. But every mile you drive without grease grinds metal off your CV joint. Once you hear clicking, the damage is permanent.