Axle & CV Shaft Repair Cost Guide
Front CV Axle Replacement (One Side)
Labor Time: 1.5-2 hours
Labor Cost: $187-250
Parts Cost: $120-300
Total Estimated Cost: $307-550
Front CV Axle Replacement (Both Sides)
Labor Time: 2.5-3 hours
Labor Cost: $312-375
Parts Cost: $240-600
Total Estimated Cost: $552-975
CV Boot Replacement
Labor Time: 1.5-2 hours
Labor Cost: $187-250
Parts Cost: $30-75
Total Estimated Cost: $217-325
Rear Axle Shaft Replacement
Labor Time: 1.5-2.5 hours
Labor Cost: $187-312
Parts Cost: $150-400
Total Estimated Cost: $337-712
Please Note:
- Prices are estimates and may vary based on vehicle make, model, and year
- Parts costs can vary significantly between OEM and aftermarket options
- Additional repairs may be necessary depending on inspection findings
- Labor rate calculated at $125/hour
Signs You Need Axle/CV Shaft Service:
- Clicking noise when turning
- Grease leaking from boots
- Vibration while driving
- Clunking sounds during acceleration or deceleration
Axle / CV Shaft Assembly Replacement Procedure
Safety First:Always ensure the vehicle is properly supported on jack stands and the wheels are chocked before beginning any work.
Removal Process:
- Loosen the axle nut while the vehicle is still on the ground
- Raise and secure the vehicle on jack stands
- Remove the wheel and tire assembly
- Remove the brake caliper and secure it to prevent strain on the brake line
- Remove the axle nut completely
- Disconnect any ABS sensors or brake line brackets attached to the strut
- Separate the lower ball joint from the knuckle (if necessary)
- Use a pry bar to carefully separate the CV shaft from the hub assembly
- For inner CV joint removal, remove any retaining clips and carefully pull the shaft from the transmission
Installation Process:
- Compare the new CV shaft assembly to the old one to ensure proper fitment
- Clean the splines and mating surfaces thoroughly
- If replacing inner CV joint, ensure new retaining clip is installed
- Insert the inner CV joint into the transmission until it clicks into place
- Guide the outer CV joint through the hub assembly
- Reconnect the lower ball joint if previously separated
- Install new axle nut (never reuse old axle nuts)
- Reattach brake caliper and any ABS sensors or brackets
- Reinstall wheel and tire assembly
- Lower vehicle and torque axle nut to manufacturer specifications
Important Notes:
- Always replace CV boots if torn or damaged
- Check wheel bearings while system is apart
- Verify proper CV joint operation after installation
- Test drive vehicle to ensure no vibrations or unusual noises
Note: This is a general procedure and may vary by vehicle make and model. Always consult your vehicle's service manual for specific instructions and torque specifications.
Average Completion Time:1-3 hours depending on vehicle model and conditions
Tools Required:Socket set, breaker bar, pry bar, torque wrench, ball joint separator, safety equipment
Understanding Axle & CV Shaft Assemblies
No content available for this section.
Common Failure Symptoms of Axle and CV Joint Assemblies
Signs of Axle & CV Joint Failure
Clicking or Popping Noises
What you'll hear: A clicking, popping, or clunking sound when turning, especially during sharp turns. This is one of the earliest and most common signs of CV joint failure.
Vibrations While Driving
What you'll feel: Vibrations in the car that increase with speed. If the CV joint or axle is damaged, it may cause the wheel to shake, resulting in vibrations felt throughout the vehicle.
Grease Leakage
What to look for: Dark grease on the inside edge of your tires or along the CV boot. If the protective boot is torn, grease will leak out, leading to premature joint failure.
Boot Damage
Visual inspection: Look for tears, cracks, or splits in the rubber CV boots. Once the boot is damaged, it can't protect the joint from dirt and moisture, leading to accelerated wear.
Maintenance Schedule
Regular Inspection: CV joints and axles should be inspected during routine maintenance, typically every 30,000 miles or when performing brake service.
Boot Inspection: CV boots should be checked every 6 months for signs of damage or deterioration.
Replacement Guidelines:
- CV joints typically last 80,000 to 100,000 miles under normal conditions
- Replace immediately if boots are damaged
- Replace if excessive play is found in the joint
- Consider replacement if vehicle has over 150,000 miles and showing signs of wear
Note: Driving conditions, vehicle maintenance, and driving style can significantly impact the lifespan of CV joints and axles. Regular inspection and prompt attention to any issues can help prevent more expensive repairs.
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.
