CV Axel Shaft replacement-- one sides bad but should both be replaced?

[runnerbuzz]

I am sure the "CV" has been discussed. I am just trying to find out if the dealership was correct. My drivers side boot is shot, so I planned on replacing that side. the dealership told me that it was recommended both be replaced, so I avoided problems with just replacing one. the gentleman I spoke with said that this meant replacing one would cause damage, as opposed to it meaning that if I fixed both, i wouldnt have to worry about it later. The other side of my car is fine, as of now, but I would prefer financing the cost of one side, rather than the cost of the whole freakin thing. thanks.

 

[004Gunner]

Most likely BS. Unless there is something wrong with both CVs, then replacing the one is fine. They absolutely do NOT need to be replaced in pairs. Plenty of people have replaced just one side, myself included, and replacing something that has nothing wrong with it is a waste. Also, if it is just the boot that is torn or leaking, you can have the dealership replace just the boots and save a good chunk of money. If you're replacing the CV axle yourself, it would be less labor and only slightly more money to replace the entire CV axle as opposed to just replacing the boots. But again, if someone is doing the work for you, save money and just have the boots replaced instead of paying for the whole new CV axle. I would recommend taking it somewhere else.

 

[runnerbuzz]

Thanks for the response, it helped a lot. I guess my next question is, if I already hear a bit of a clicking sound, though not a bad one, should I still just replace the boot, or would you recommend the axle? I know it's somewhat of a judgment call, but I dont know much about it, and would hate to replace a boot, and then have the axle go. Thanks again. By the way, its a v8 sr5 all time four wheel drive with 104,000 miles.

 

[004Gunner]

If you have a clicking sound then I would just replace the entire cv axle. Replacing the boots alone is indicated only when you have grease spewing out with no other issues.

 

[fourwd1]

Just replace the broken CV shaft.

As the saying goes, if it ain't broke ...