If the joint is exposed I'd replace it. Most likely you have gotten rocks and debris all up in there.

I'd do it very soon if not immediately if I were you. Plus better now then when the storm come rolling in.

As far as a DIY, they are pretty straight forward really. Just make sure you have something big to hit the end of the axle with in the event that it has become one with the hub.

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03 3.0i mt
89 325is