Can you replace just one CV axle?
No, it’s not necessary; there is no need to replace a CV axle if it’s in good shape. Can you save a CV axle by replacing only a broken boot? There are aftermarket boots that can be installed without removing the whole CV axle, but only one side of it. They are called stretch CV boots.
How much does it cost to replace a driver side axle?
The repairs can cost you anywhere from $170 to $900 or more. It depends primarily on the kind of car you have, as the parts will range in price quite a bit. Labor costs are typically between $100 and $200, but a few cars will cost more. It just depends on how long the mechanic has to work to change out your axle.
How do you remove the passenger side of a CV axle?
You can use a small pry bar or sturdy flathead screwdriver to pry the axle from the joint. If the axle doesn’t immediately come loose, try twisting it back and force to break the seal. It’s normal for some transmission fluid to leak out as you remove the axle from the cv joint. You should put down a catch pan.
Should I replace both CV axles if only one is bad?
CV joints and boots can be replaced individually, but most professional technicians and even do-it-yourselfers prefer to replace the whole halfshaft assembly with a remanufactured shaft. On a high-mileage vehicle with a bad CV joint or boot, it’s often a good idea to replace both shafts at the same time.
What is left CV axle?
CV axles, or constant velocity axles, come into play. They allow the transmission to drive a car’s wheels and open up a range of motion with bearings. The CV axle is composed of those bearings and rubber boots that can wear out over time.
How does a CV axle work on a front wheel drive car?
A typical inner CV joint has three rollers on a tripod (spider) that can slide inside the CV joint housing, so the CV axle can extend or contract as needed. Typical CV axle (shaft) of a front wheel drive car with a Rzeppa outer CV joint and closed tripod-style inner joint. The inner CV joint can work under small angle too.
What happens when a CV axle is worn out?
A CV axle that is excessively worn can produce a clunking or clicking noise when shifting between decelerating and accelerating. CV axles in some FWD, AWD and 4WD vehicles. If an inner joint is worn out or sticking, it can cause the vehicle to shake laterally (side to side) on acceleration.
How much does it cost to replace a CV axle?
In a typical small or medium front-wheel drive car, replacing one front CV axle with an aftermarket part costs from $180 to $410. OEM parts are more expensive, but the OEM quality is often better.
What can I use to replace front drive axle?
A large crescent wrench or pipe wrench is not an acceptable substitute. Borrow, rent or buy the right socket and a flex handle with at least an 18-in. handle, because that nut may be torqued to as much as 300 lb.-ft. You can use an air wrench to loosen it if you have compressed air available.