Driveshaft Repair Cost Guide
Universal Joint (U-Joint) Replacement
Labor time: 1-2 hours
Typical cost: $125-250 labor plus $30-75 per U-joint
Total estimated cost: $155-400
Center Support Bearing Replacement
Labor time: 1.5-2.5 hours
Typical cost: $187-312 labor plus $50-150 for parts
Total estimated cost: $237-462
Complete Driveshaft Replacement
Labor time: 2-3 hours
Typical cost: $250-375 labor plus $300-800 for new driveshaft
Total estimated cost: $550-1,175
Driveshaft Balancing
Labor time: 1-1.5 hours
Typical cost: $125-187 labor plus balancing weights
Total estimated cost: $150-225
Driveshaft Rebuild
Labor time: 3-4 hours
Typical cost: $375-500 labor plus parts (U-joints, bearings, etc.)
Total estimated cost: $500-800
Note: Prices may vary based on vehicle make/model and specific damage. All estimates include our standard labor rate of $125/hour. Additional parts or complications may affect final pricing.
Driveshaft Repair Procedures
Conventional One-Piece Driveshaft
Step 1:Inspect the driveshaft for visible damage, including dents, bends, or worn universal joints.
Step 2:Remove the driveshaft by disconnecting it from both the transmission and rear differential.
Step 3:Replace worn universal joints by pressing out the old ones and installing new ones.
Step 4:Check and replace center support bearing if necessary.
Step 5:Balance the driveshaft on a specialized balancing machine.
Step 6:Reinstall the driveshaft, ensuring proper alignment and torque specifications.
Two-Piece Driveshaft
Step 1:Mark the orientation of both shaft sections before removal.
Step 2:Remove both sections of the driveshaft carefully.
Step 3:Replace center support bearing and universal joints as needed.
Step 4:Inspect the slip yoke and splines for wear.
Step 5:Balance both sections independently.
Step 6:Reinstall both sections in their original orientation.
Step 7:Verify proper phasing between the two sections.
CV Joint Driveshaft
Step 1:Remove the driveshaft assembly from the vehicle.
Step 2:Clean and inspect the CV joints for damage or wear.
Step 3:Replace the CV joint boot if torn or damaged.
Step 4:Repack CV joints with fresh grease if serviceable.
Step 5:Replace entire CV joint if internal components are worn.
Step 6:Check shaft for straightness and balance.
Step 7:Reinstall and verify proper operation.
Slip-Yoke Driveshaft
Step 1:Remove driveshaft and mark spline orientation.
Step 2:Clean and inspect slip yoke splines for wear.
Step 3:Replace seals and bushings in the slip yoke.
Step 4:Lubricate splines with appropriate grease.
Step 5:Check for proper slip yoke travel.
Step 6:Replace universal joints if needed.
Step 7:Balance assembly and reinstall.
Important Note:All driveshaft repairs should be performed by qualified technicians using proper tools and equipment. Incorrect repair or installation can lead to severe driveline vibration and potential safety hazards.
Warranty Information:Most professional driveshaft repairs come with a warranty covering both parts and labor. Ask your service provider about specific warranty terms and conditions.
Types of Driveshafts and Their Functions
Propeller Shaft (Main Driveshaft)
Thepropeller shaft, also known as the main driveshaft, is the primary component that transfers power from the transmission to the differential in rear-wheel and four-wheel drive vehicles. It's a long, tubular shaft that rotates at high speeds, carrying torque from the engine to the wheels. This shaft is crucial for vehicles where the engine and driven wheels are separated.
CV (Constant Velocity) Driveshaft
TheCV driveshaftis commonly found in front-wheel-drive vehicles and independent suspensions. It features special joints (CV joints) that maintain a constant rotational speed while accommodating various angles and movements of the suspension. These shafts are essential for smooth power delivery and handling, particularly during turning maneuvers.
Cardan Shaft
TheCardan shaft, featuring universal joints, is a type of driveshaft that can transmit power between components that are not in perfect alignment. It's commonly used in industrial applications and some vehicles, allowing for flexibility in power transmission while handling angular misalignment between the transmission and differential.
Half Shaft
Ahalf shaftis a shorter driveshaft that connects the differential to the drive wheels in independent suspension systems. These shafts typically incorporate CV joints and are crucial components in both front-wheel-drive vehicles and independent rear suspensions, allowing for both drive power transmission and suspension movement.
Double Cardan Shaft
Thedouble Cardan shaftis a specialized driveshaft that uses two universal joints arranged in a specific configuration to maintain constant velocity, even at high angles. This type is often used in vehicles with lifted suspensions or those requiring greater articulation while maintaining smooth power delivery.
Slip Shaft
Aslip shaftis a driveshaft design that includes a splined slip joint, allowing the shaft to compress and extend while rotating. This feature is crucial for vehicles where the distance between transmission and differential changes during suspension movement, ensuring continuous power delivery without binding or damage.
Note: Regular maintenance and inspection of any driveshaft type is essential for optimal vehicle performance and safety.
Signs and Symptoms of Driveshaft Failure
Common Driveshaft Issues and Maintenance Guide
Conventional Driveshafts
Signs of Failure:
- Vibration while driving, especially at higher speeds
- Clunking or knocking sounds when shifting gears
- Squeaking noise during vehicle operation
- Shuddering when accelerating
- Universal joint movement resistance or stiffness
Maintenance Schedule:
- Inspect U-joints every 30,000 miles
- Lubricate grease fittings (if equipped) every 15,000 miles
- Check for shaft straightness and balance annually
CV (Constant Velocity) Driveshafts
Signs of Failure:
- Clicking or popping noise when turning
- Grease leaking from CV boots
- Torn or cracked CV boots
- Excessive vibration during acceleration
- Vehicle shaking when cornering
Maintenance Schedule:
- Inspect CV boots every 15,000 miles
- Replace CV boots if torn or damaged immediately
- Check CV joints during routine maintenance
- Full inspection recommended every 60,000 miles
Cardan Shaft
Signs of Failure:
- Excessive play in universal joints
- Unusual noise during direction changes
- Vibration at specific speeds
- Center bearing rubber deterioration
Maintenance Schedule:
- Inspect center support bearing every 30,000 miles
- Check universal joints every 25,000 miles
- Lubricate splines annually (if applicable)
- Full inspection during major service intervals
Note: These maintenance intervals are general guidelines. Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific maintenance schedules, as they may vary by make and model.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
