Should I take the dealers recommendation?

[runnerbuzz]

Hey everyone. So I have a 2004 v8 sr5 all time four wheel drive 4runner. My drivers side CV boot is torn, and when I turn my wheel all the way to the right and brake, I get a click. It's been this way for a long time, and has surprisingly held up, across country even. It's definitely time to considered the next step. My question is: given the circumstances, would u suggest an entire axle replacement for 800 bucks, or just changing the ones side/ I was going to do the one side, but the guy at the dealership told me toyota recommended both being done, because of the threat of future problems, with only one being changed. I dont know if they meant saving myself the hassle later, or by replacing one, I would be negatively affecting the other. Hope this makes sense thanks.

 

[DC Dude]

Hey everyone. So I have a 2004 v8 sr5 all time four wheel drive 4runner. My drivers side CV boot is torn, and when I turn my wheel all the way to the right and brake, I get a click. It's been this way for a long time, and has surprisingly held up, across country even. It's definitely time to considered the next step. My question is: given the circumstances, would u suggest an entire axle replacement for 800 bucks, or just changing the ones side/ I was going to do the one side, but the guy at the dealership told me toyota recommended both being done, because of the threat of future problems, with only one being changed. I dont know if they meant saving myself the hassle later, or by replacing one, I would be negatively affecting the other. Hope this makes sense thanks.

Do one. Why fix something that ain't broke.

The only reason I would do both is if I get a discount.

 

[TOYLUVA]

How many miles?

 

[runnerbuzz]

thanks for the input so far. 104,000 miles. I agree , but I was unsure whether or not I would be causing more problems by only fixing one. The passenger side looks fine, no leaks. I am concerned, based on how it was put to me, that I will screw up something else, like four wheel drive etc.

 

[Jed]

I'd just fix the one side. There's nothing at all that can possibly cause any additional problems by just changing one. No worries about messing up the 4wd system or anything.

If the other boot tears or the CV joint fails later on, then fix that one too. Unless you have cash to spare and want to swap them both out for preventative reasons.

 

[CJ3Flyr]

I agree with the one side thing... I'd shop a bit though, $800 sounds high.


If you find a good non-dealer shop to do and it's significantly cheaper I'd consider putting a new wheel bearing on that side. It's all about the labor, when replacing the CV most of the labor to get the wheel bearing is already done. If you take that path you end up with a more thorough, complete job for less money


Does it really need a wheel bearing? Maybe, maybe not but enough guys have needed wheel bearings that if my bearings make it to CV boot failure I will replace the bearings AND vice-versa. IMHO there should be that much of a labor savings. Right now I'm at 75k with no issues, knock on wood.