Many modern car manufacturers use a suspension design that requires a specialized part, the CV axle. As this part fails, it causes vibrations and unusual noises. When you need CV axles repair, visit Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville.
CV Axles Repair Options
While many car owners are familiar with basic automobile maintenance, the knowledge of specific drivetrain components is less common. One part, the CV axle, should last between 70,000 and 130,000 miles. However, sometimes this part can fail sooner, requiring a repair option.
Replace the boot
At what time can you opt for this choice? Sometimes, the boot covering the joint becomes damaged and leaks the lubricating grease. If you catch the leak early and the axle is in good condition, only boot replacement may be necessary.
How do you replace the boot?
-Safely raise the vehicle off the ground
-Disconnect the CV axle
-Cut off the old boot and clean the shaft and joint thoroughly
-Pack the joint with new, high-temperature grease
-Slide on a new boot and secure it with clamps
-Reconnect the CV axle
- Benefit: A CV boot replacement is cheaper than a CV axles repair.
- Disadvantage: It won’t fix a worn CV joint. If your joint is failing, you’ll continue to experience problems with your suspension.
- DIY vs. Pro: If you have some mechanical knowledge and the right tools, you may be able to replace it.
Replace the axle
When Do I Need To Replace The CV Axle? If you notice any one of the signs of a failing CV joint listed later.
How do you perform a CV axle replacement?
-Safely raise the car
-Disconnect the old axle from the wheel and transmission
-Carefully remove the old CV axle
-Replace the CV axle assembly, reconnecting to the transmission and wheel
- Disadvantage: It’s more expensive than a CV boot replacement.
- Benefit: When you replace the entire CV axle assembly, it ensures that everything will work properly.
- DIY vs. Pro: Replacing the CV axle is more complicated than replacing the CV boot. Most experts recommend having a professional handle the job.
Bad Axle Symptoms Indicating Failing CV Joints
The CV axle assembly has several different parts. A half shaft connects the inner joint to the transmission and the outer joint to the wheels. Rubber or plastic boots containing lubricating grease surround the joints. Generally, you’ll know your joints are failing by one of the following signs:
- Vibration While Driving
As the CV axle begins to wear, the joint will experience play or unusual looseness. This excessive movement will cause the car to vibrate. Continuing to drive with continuous vibrations can cause unnecessary strain on your transmission, leading to higher repair costs.
- Clicking Noise
CV joints contain ball bearings to reduce friction and allow the smooth transmission of power to the wheels. When these bearings wear out, they can’t move fluidly anymore, creating unusual noises. The clicking noise usually occurs during acceleration or turning.
- Knocking Sounds
While failing outer CV joints make a clicking sound, bad inner joints make a knocking sound during acceleration and deceleration.
- Tires Splattered With Grease
Usually, when the boot covering the joint goes bad, your inner wheels will become splashed with the lubricating grease.
CV Axle Repair FAQs
Have you noticed some unusual sounds and are wondering what to do? Below, we answer a few questions about CV axles repair.
Are Split Boot Kits A Good Solution?
A split boot has a slit down one side that fits easily over the joint. This eliminates the need to disconnect the CV axle from the wheel. However, these kits are a temporary, emergency repair, not a permanent fix.
Comparatively, a regular CV boot is a single, seamless piece of rubber. Without the potential weak point of the seam, this is a permanent fix.
Can I Repair My CV Axle By Replacing The Bad Joint?
While it is possible, it’s more cost-effective to replace the whole CV axle. Although the CV joint cost is less than a complete axle assembly, the labor is more expensive.
How Much Does It Cost For A CV Axle Replacement?
Several factors affect the replacement cost of a CV axle, including the make, model, and year of your vehicle. Moreover, there’s a big price difference between an OEM and an aftermarket part. On average, expect to pay around $1,200.
Is It Safe To Drive With A Damaged CV Axle?
It’s never safe to drive with malfunctioning automobile parts. First, a failing part strains other components, leading to increased repair costs. Furthermore, it’s dangerous as a CV joint can break while driving, making it difficult to handle your vehicle:
- Power can no longer reach the wheels
- The steering can become unresponsive or erratic
- You can suffer a complete loss of control over the vehicle
Why Choose Xpress Lube For Your Repair?
We are a locally owned business offering a full-service auto care shop with fast and reliable service. Our friendly, professional service and quality auto care earned us a reputation for fairness and transparency. Here’s what a few customers say about us
Top notch service and amazing staff! Mac and Derrick run a tight ship. – Christine M
We have trusted our vehicles to Mac and his team for over a decade. An asset to the community. Always professional and personable. I don’t go anywhere else. – Tim I.
Awesome….have been going here for over 15 years….incredible staff that know you very name every time. Highly recommend it!!! – Matt A.
If you’re experiencing any symptoms of a failing CV joint, call Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville today at 336-904-6319. You’ll soon see why we’re one of the most trusted auto shops in the area.
