How long do CV axles last? I have heard people asking this question so frequently that it has become mandatory for me to address the issue. Many will say that the CV axles do not have an expiry date, but it depends on the use.
Even though they’re somewhat true, you can always estimate a number to something that’s manufactured. With that being said, CV axles, too, have expiries. These are not just expressed in dates.
Keep reading the article to identify when you need to get your CV axles replaced so that you can stay prepared for anything.
How Long Do CV Axles Last?
Your CV axles will last somewhere from 80,000 miles to 100,000 miles. However, it vastly depends on your use. Several reasons can trigger your CV axles to wear before their estimated expiry.
The essential thing here is to ensure that the CV axles are well in condition. You can look for certain symptoms to identify if there are any issues with them. Before jumping further, let me tell you why and how CV axles can get damaged.
You probably know what CV axles are and how they work. Still, I’m going to give you an overview of the particles. These parts connect your wheels to the engine and help them rotate. There is a part of a CV axle that contains grease to keep the component lubricated.
In any case, if the boot (the part that contains the grease) gets damaged somehow, the CV axle joints can lose lubrication. The dirt will get inside the components, and you won’t be able to drive your vehicle anymore.
Many people use aftermarket boots to repair one side of the existing boot. It’s a straightforward procedure to do since you don’t need to remove the whole CV axle. However, remember that doing it can cause unwanted problems because the quality won’t match your Jeep’s components.
It’s better to spend a few more bucks and fix the problem with quality components. This way, you won’t have to spend more money on CV axles any time soon because the solution will last longer.
How To Identify If Your Jeep’s CV Axle Is Damaged?
There are a few symptoms to identify a damaged CV axle. For instance, if you experience vibration when driving, you should check out your CV axles for any damage. Another indicator is the clicking sound when you’re turning your Jeep.
You can also look out for grease on the edge or inside of your tire. The grease on the tire will mean a ruptured boot, making the CV axle go bad. Also, look out for knocking sounds. This can mean that your CV axles need checking.
Many people wonder how much it costs to replace CV axles. The cost isn’t a fixed one. It’ll vary depending on whether you’re replacing one or both axles, the mechanic replacing your axles, and the type of your vehicle.
However, the good news is, you can save some money by changing the CV axles by yourself. Another question people often ask is whether they need to replace both axles at the same time. The answer is no, you don’t. If only one of your axles is damaged for some reason, there’s no need to replace them both.
Note that most vehicles will cover the CV axle in their warranty. Look at the details of your warranty documents to learn how long they’re getting it covered for you. You may find that the CV axle is covered for about 60,000 miles or five years. If they break before that time, you won’t have to spend anything at all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it dangerous to drive with damaged CV axles?
Even though it’s possible to keep driving with damaged CV axles, it can be dangerous. Any time the axles can entirely fail, resulting in severe damage to the car. It’s also possible to lose control of the vehicle and cause accidents.
So, it’s suggested to change them as soon as possible after they’re damaged.
How long does it take to replace a CV axle?
If we’re considering professional service, it’ll only take about one hour to replace a damaged CV axle. If you want to save money, you can also replace a CV axle on your own.
How to know if the CV axle is damaged?
If your CV axle is damaged or broken, the signs will talk for themselves. There are a few things you will notice if they’re damaged. First of all, search for clicking noises when you’re turning your vehicle. You can also experience knocking sounds.
Another sign is grease on your tire’s edges. It indicates that the boots are damaged, and grease is leaking from them.
How long can I expect a CV joint to last after it starts making noise?
CV joints will usually last four to five months, even after they start making noises. However, you shouldn’t delay much before changing them to avoid unwanted accidents and damage to the vehicle.
Is it possible to save a CV axle by replacing a damaged boot?
It depends on how badly the axle is damaged. If you identify early on, when there hasn’t been a significant grease leakage, it’s possible to save it only by replacing the boot. However, if you discover that the damage is more intense, you will have to replace the entire axle.
Final Words
As you can see, there’s no constant answer to the ‘how long do CV axles last’ question. If the boots get damaged, your CV axles can last shorter than they’re supposed to. However, you can drive your car for a while even after the boots are damaged.
Before your damaged CV axles affect your vehicle’s performance, you should change them. Or, better yet, visit a professional mechanic to get them changed if you don’t mind the added cost. Nonetheless, if you intend to change them yourself, make sure you understand the procedure and do it accordingly.
