When you hear something in your car make a Ticka-Ticka-Ticka sound, especially when you turn your wheel at low speeds, it is safe to say something is wrong. And most likely that something is your CV joint.
Constant-velocity joint makes sure that the wheels turn at a stable velocity, despite up and down movement in the car’s suspension. If you notice serious trouble with it, you should replace it entirely as soon as possible before it disintegrates.
Now, perhaps, your questions are: How do you diagnose axle problem? How much does CV joint replacement cost? Where do you buy it? Why do I need to replace it? We will help you answer all those questions in this article.
How are CV joints issues diagnosed?
You can diagnose a faulty CV joint by test drive and visual inspection, according to MyaAutomaticTransmission.
- A Grease that is leaking out from small crack is an early sign of the CV joint boot damage. If you can see a dark oil leaking in the wheel edge, that means the defect is big. A broken CV boot allows dirt and fragments get into the boot and damage the component. So, it needs replacement.
- If you still use your car even there is a damaged CV joint boot, the joint will certainly wear through and in the long run, it will crack. You’llnotice it when you hear a clicking noise from the CV joints when turning.
- Damages in the Inner CV joints are uncommon. You will notice it when there is a tremble or side-to-side wobble throughout acceleration.
Average Cost of CV Joint Replacement
Usually, when you have a damaged CV boot, a repair shop will recommend a full replacement of the of the entire CV axle. It is most clear-cut and cost-effective approach in dealing with broken CV joint.
However, if you insist on replacing the CV boot by yourself, that is fine. But a shop can’t guarantee you the efficiency unless the entire axle is replaced.
You could buy a replacement axle shaft for $68 to $180 each, but with the cv boot repair price, it could be $168 up to $620.
For a double axle joint replacement, the charge can range from $144 to $399 each, but with labor will be $235 to $1180, varying on the workload.
Below is the price comparison, from several big shops.
Parts with Labor
| Store | Single (lowest price) | Single (highest price) | Double (lowest price | Double (highest price) | Warranty |
| Your Mechanic | 183 | 342 | 352 | 650 | 1 year |
| NAPA | 168 | 620 | 235 | 1180 | 1 year |
| Midas | 210 | 454 | 385 | 810 | 1 year |
| Average cost | 187 | 472 | 324 | 880 |
Parts Only
| Store | Single (lowest price) | Single (highest price) | Double (lowest price) | Double (highest price) | Warranty |
| Amazon | 68 | 131 | 171 | 399 | limited |
| Walmart | 75 | 180 | 144 | 319 | limited |
| Pep Boys | 96 | 143 | 187 | 276 | 6 months |
| Average cost | 80 | 151 | 167 | 331 |
Where to Purchase?
If you want an immediate replacement and don’t want to go to a shop, you can obtain a constant-velocity joint online from most well-known retailers and their trained mechanics will do the repair at your home.
Nowadays, almost all auto shops provide online services. You can place orders even you are not home. Just register on their websites and provide some necessary information. When your account is ready, you can start inquiring the cost of cv boot replacement and get a quotation to shop around.
Just remember to be cautious in picking an item. You must be knowledgeable enough to understand every specification of the vehicle parts. However, this is not a huge problem because you could ask a professional anytime by sending them a message online.
Be certain that you pick a reputable shop to have a skilled mechanic send to your home to do the repair or assemble. Keep in mind that the most valuable part in the functionality of your car is a mechanic.
Why Does It Need to be Replaced?
Perhaps, you’re still asking yourself why you need to replace your CV Joint even it only has a little problem. Well, using a car with a broken axle or CV boot is hazardous. The vehicle will be wobbly, and the wheel may detach when the bearing splits entirely, per what GeddesAutomotive said.
Take your car to the trustworthy shop if you hear a grinding from your wheel. Have a mechanic check it immediately to avoid additional damage and dangerous driving conditions. Remember, safety first, even before getting the best price.
Can You Do It All by Your Self?
You can try to repair or replace your car’s Constant-velocity joint if you are a skilled mechanic. If you are a beginner or novice then you have just decided to experiment on your vehicle and you may have worsened your car’s conditions. Your car may not be able to return to its operational status. Also, the job has dangerous lifting procedures that may cause harm and even death.
However, if you are certain you understand all the driveline mechanisms and assemblies, you can perform the task. You just need the right tools and absolute dedication to the work.
If you don’t have the gear and skills to replace the CV Joint, take it to the skilled mechanic.
Conclusion
If you don’t want your vehicle to be in the auto shop over and over again, choose to have a full axle replacement. Replacing every part of your car may spoil your savings, as each part needs fixing.
However, preventing CV joint problems is cheaper than fixing them once they occur. CV axles serve as the vital connection between the wheels and the engine. Thus they need attention.
Always inspect the CV boots every time the wheels are detached from your vehicle for simple matters, such as tire rotations. If you find a small rupture, have it replaced.