Can a knackered front outer CV cause handling problems?
 

An odd question I know.

I had a clicking/grinding outer CV joint on the N/S front shaft. I was in the process of sourcing a replacement when the noises have suddenly ceased to be replaced by understeer when turning right but not when turning left.

I'm sure these two must be unconnected but I thought I would ask.

No, cant see how the 2 can be connected It could be that the bolts that hold the strut to the hub have come loose altering the camber Which could cause understeer, or the wheel bearing has gone causing the same camber change the cv won't cause handling problems Unless it's causing that wheel to lock slightly when turning. Jack it up and check for play in the hub or binding when you turn the wheel.

If it has run low on grease and has begun seizing then its a possibilty and when turning you're asking the cv joint to constantly spin the wheel through a rotational angle so it is a possibility.

However, i shouldn't think the understeer would be much more noticeable from a right or left hand turn. Understeer is certainly possible if it's partially seized though. But definately worth checking everything else too

This may sound a bit odd but on my first car i had new cv's put in which were the wrong size so they were to small for the shafts, is it possible one has came loose so only one side of the car is pulling it along? just a small thought as it sounds like a typical driveshaft fault that ive experienced before