When a CV boot is cracked, torn or simply fails due to age, it's difficult to determine how long it has been compromised and how much damage has been done to the CV joint. In some cases a repair shop will simply replace the CV boot, but typically the entire CV axle will be replaced with a new or remanufactured axle, because the costs are about the same and the shop might not be willing to guarantee the work unless the entire axle is replaced.
Typical costs:
Replacing a CV boot (which is most cases means replacing the axle/shaft) can cost $150-$600, depending on the make, model and type of vehicle, although on some large or luxury vehicles it can cost $600-$1,200 or more. Sometimes a boot and half-axle will be replaced only on one side, but often they are replaced in pairs. On passenger cars, CostHelper readers report paying $165-$300 to replace one axle and boot, at an average cost of $228; or $218-$510 to do both sides, with an average of $414. On SUVs and minivans, CostHelper readers report costs of $137-$300 to do one side, for an average of $219; or $330-$1,258 for both sides, with an average of $577.
A do-it-yourself CV boot kit can cost $5-$30, depending on the make, model and type of vehicle, and the project typically takes about three to four hours. A replacement CV axle can cost $50-$150 or more, depending on the vehicle, and the project takes about half an hour. CostHelper readers report paying $12-$23 for DIY replacement of just the CV boot, or $100 for two CV axles with boots, for an average DIY cost of $45. Rocky Mountain Driveline in Denver, CO posts a CV axle price list[1] with costs of $50-$70 for just the part, depending on the year, make and model of vehicle.
A constant velocity axle transmits power from the engine and transmission to drive the vehicle's wheels, allowing the axle to flex with the suspension while continuing to turn the wheels. Each CV axle has two joints; a CV boot surrounds each CV joint, protecting it from dirt and moisture. Rocky Mountain Driveline in Denver, CO provides an overview[2] .
CV joints are found in most front-wheel drive vehicles and some rear- and four-wheel drive vehicles. A video by Eric the Car Guy[3] demonstrates how to replace a CV boot, including an explanation of why it makes more economic sense to replace the axle instead of just the boot.
Additional costs:
Some shops include a wheel alignment($20-$400) in the cost of a CV boot/axle replacement, and others charge extra for it. A wheel alignment is not necessarily required after a CV boot/axle replacement, but the conditions that caused problems with the CV boot/axle may have affected the alignment.
Discounts:
Some repair shops offer discounts for AAA members[4] .
Shopping for replacing a cv boot:
Search for local repair shops through the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence[5] or the International Automotive Technicians Network[6] .
Check for any complaints with the Better Business Bureau[7] .
Consumer Reports lists tips for finding a good mechanic[8] .
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price incl Kobalt 24V Max 650 lbs. ft. torque impact driver, 36 mm impact socket (Amazon), 250 lbs. ft. torque wrench (Amazon, EPauto), Lowes: Pry bar set. DIY instruction/demo video on Youtube. Already had other sockets and hand tools such as nail punch, hammer at no cost for this repair job.
I think I got you guys all beat in terms of dealerships ripping people off. On top of that I have a CPO warranty that i heard most people have it covered by. I was just doing my research before I accepted charges. Now I know this is way to high. I hate being seen as a naive girl, mechanics always try and rip me off.
I always feel that they charge way more than any other place, but they use genuine parts, which is usually a plus. I've had to get jobs done a second time when I've taken my car elsewhere where they use whatever they have in stock. Had a dealership coupon which was helpful, $30 off.
Scott Clark Toyota quoted $1100.00 to replace one axel and boot on 2012 Toyota Camry LE so called around and the average was $400. Woodie's has 36,000 mile warranty on parts and labor and was $300.
Told that the CV boot was leaking and the axle had to be replaced. I believe that the cost is way too much and have opted not to do the work ,,,at least at the Audi dealer.
Went in for bad brakes was told cv boots should be changed paid $870. 2 days later cars.driving & goes into neutral no gears working & driver side arm is coming out of engine & rattled lose.
I had both drive shafts (left + right) replaced along with the 2 front wheel bearings for a total cost of $1150. I think I was ripped off by this Honda dealer.
Needed the CV boot replaced in order to pass Safety Inspection, since I was getting the Safety done there I went with them for the repair also. Fast job, cost was exactly as quoted but I didn't shop around so I didn't know if that was cheap or not. PS you need to update the website to include 2016 as an option.
Bought the axles myself on ebay for 40 each, then had a mobile mechanic come to my house to do the work. It is not a hard job, but has a couple tricky parts for a subaru. Easier for a honda or toyota.
I have been quoted $600 per side to replace axel with boot. No way do I have that kind of $$. Just how important is it that they be replaced NOW? I was told one thing on the phone and another on the print out. On the phone I was told the boots were torn. The print out says the boots are hard from age.
I don't know the price are right or what, I remember the rebuilted CC axle only cost 75$ a piece for 2 it run $ 150 plus labors. I estimate it's for $ 400 is the Max. I am got bending over bad. Well only one time ...I bet u never again.
They had have to replace my CV half shaft and are doing it at a responsible price. I'm not going to have my car for a couple of days but thats okay bc they are including an alignment and tire balance for me in the cost. Also the mechanic is going to look my entire car over to make sure I don't need anything else done. I can't remember the name of the shop but the guys there are really nice they even paid to have my car towed to the shop for me :)
The cost estimate provided me to replace both half axles was 1257.86 here in Springfield, VA. I costed out the parts and will do the job myself after watching utube videos!
i did it my self its not worth paying 500 or 600 hundred of dollars i was doing this first time and it wasent too hard just alot of stuff you have to remove
Recently had an oil change shop tell me I had an open boot. Called CV Pros got in same day, took about an hour and tech showed me the wear inside the outer joint. Was very pleased! Other shops wanted way more and then charge me for an alignment too!!! CV Pros informed me that if done correctly you do not need an alignment!!! WOW!! Nice to see HONEST shops out there! Oh, and this price included a LIFETIME WARRANTY! (no catches) I am going to take my chev 4x4 there next week, the same Lifetime warranty only 249.95 installed!
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