My civic (98 dx 4dr manual) developed a deep knocking noise while turning. My cv boots don't seem to be ripped or torn. My tie rods have tears in them though, and will be replaced soon. Any idea on if you can develop a knock or skip while turning from poor alignment due to worn tie rods? When I hear bad CVs I normally associate that to a ticking while turning. This is more of a grunt, which makes me think of misalignment. Also, if I replace my outer tie rods myself, how can I ensure my alignment is close enough to straight so i can drive it far enough to get a proper alignment. Thank you!

 

It might not be ripped but the joint itself can be damaged.

 

Would the only way to diagnose a bad cv be just taking it off and removing the boot to check for damages?

 

Also, would one bad cv produce knocking or ticking when turning both left and right? Because when I turn, the sound comes from which ever wheel is on the interior of the turn

 

It can be inspected on the ground. If the shaft of the axle in question is moving around its a possibility that the joint is fubered.