How much does it cost to replace the axle on a Honda Odyssey?
Replacing a CV axle on a Honda Odyssey typically costs about $300 to $700 per axle, including parts and labor. Prices vary by year, region, and whether you choose aftermarket or OEM parts. This guide breaks down what influences the price and how to plan for the repair.
The Honda Odyssey relies on front CV axles to transfer power from the transmission to the front wheels. When boots crack or joints wear out, you’ll often hear clicking on turns or notice grease around the wheel. Most owners end up replacing the entire half-shaft rather than just a boot, since that tends to be more reliable and comes with a warranty. Costs can change based on model year, the need to replace one side versus both, and the part quality you select.
What a CV axle is and why it fails
The CV axle (constant-velocity axle) transmits engine power to the wheels while accommodating steering and suspension movement. It consists of an inner joint, an outer joint, a shaft, and protective boots filled with grease. Over time, boots can tear, grease leaks out, and joints wear, leading to symptoms like clicking, vibration, or a rough ride. In many cases, replacing the entire half-shaft is more dependable than replacing a single joint or boot.
Cost breakdown
Below is a typical cost range for replacing a single CV axle on a Honda Odyssey, covering common parts and labor estimates. Actual prices can vary by region and shop.
- Parts cost (aftermarket): roughly $100–$250 per axle; OEM or dealer parts can range from $200–$350 per axle.
- Labor cost: typically 1.0–2.5 hours per axle at shop rates of about $80–$150 per hour, depending on the region and the shop’s rate.
- Estimated total per axle: typically $300–$700, with most common repairs landing in the $350–$600 range.
Prices can be higher if the repair involves more components (like replacing a hub, bearing, or additional seals), if the vehicle has AWD features requiring more extensive work, or if you opt for dealer labor rates and OEM parts.
Single vs. two-axle replacement
If both front CV axles are worn or damaged, replacing both at once can save time and labor, and may come with a bundled discount from some shops. A two-axle job typically costs about double the per-axle price, plus any wholesale savings on paired labor.
Ultimately, the final cost depends on the condition of both axles, whether wheel bearings or seals are involved, and the labor rate at your chosen shop. Always request a written estimate before work begins.
What can affect price and value
Several variables can influence the final quote for replacing a CV axle. Common factors include:
- Vehicle model year and trim can influence the design and part cost; newer Odysseys may use slightly different axle assemblies.
- Choice of parts: aftermarket CV axles are cheaper than OEM/dealer parts, but premium aftermarket options may offer longer warranties or higher quality.
- Labor rates vary by region and shop; urban areas typically cost more than rural shops.
- Additional repairs needed (brake components, wheel bearings, hub assemblies, seals) can increase total cost.
- Warranty or service plan coverage may offset some costs if the axle fails within coverage.
For reliability and warranty reasons, many drivers opt for a full half-shaft replacement rather than attempting a partial repair.
DIY considerations
For mechanically inclined DIYers, swapping a CV axle is doable with the right tools and safety precautions, but it is a labor-intensive job that requires proper jacking, axle nut torque, and alignment checks. Savings on labor can be significant, but improper installation can lead to safety issues or premature failure.
Always consult the vehicle’s service manual for torque specs and procedures, and use quality tools and parts to ensure a safe, long-lasting repair.
Bottom line and options
In most cases, you should expect to pay around $300–$700 to replace a single CV axle on a Honda Odyssey. If you replace both front axles, total costs typically range from about $600–$1,400, depending on parts and labor rates. Shopping around, requesting itemized quotes, and weighing OEM versus aftermarket parts can help you balance cost and reliability.
Ask for a written estimate that breaks out parts and labor, confirm whether a new hub or bearing is included, and check warranty terms on both parts and labor before authorizing the work.
Summary
For most Honda Odyssey owners, CV axle replacement costs sit in the $300–$700 range per axle, with two-axle jobs typically $600–$1,400. Regional prices, parts choices, and any additional repairs influence the final bill. With careful shopping and clear estimates, you can find a balance between cost and reliability.
How much does it cost to replace a CV axle on a Honda Odyssey?
The cost to replace a Honda Odyssey CV axle typically ranges from $386 to over $1200, depending on the model year, which side needs replacement, and the shop's labor rates. Most of the cost comes from labor, which can average around $150-$350 for a job that takes 1.5 to 3 hours.
This video explains the cost breakdown of CV joint replacement, including parts and labor: 52sMaxTheCarGuyYouTube · Oct 6, 2024
Cost breakdown
- Parts: A replacement CV axle can cost between $60 and $150, but prices vary.
- Labor: Labor typically runs from $150 to $350, based on an hourly rate of $85-$125 and an average of 1.5 to 3 hours of work.
- Total cost: The total price is a combination of parts and labor.
- For older models: A 2000 Honda Odyssey might cost around $386 for a single axle replacement, with a shop price of $448-$630.
- For newer models: A 2018 Honda Odyssey could cost around $760, with shop prices reaching $877-$1210 for a single axle.
Factors that influence the cost
- Vehicle year: Older or newer models may have different parts and labor costs.
- Shop rate: The hourly labor rate charged by the mechanic can vary significantly between dealerships and independent shops.
- Location: Labor rates can differ by geographic location.
- If both axles are replaced: Replacing both axles at the same time can reduce the total cost, as some labor is shared.
- Labor time: The total time can vary depending on the specific vehicle and its condition, such as any rust or seized bolts.
You can watch this video to learn about the factors that influence the cost of CV shaft replacement: 58sLouison Automotive Inc.YouTube · Apr 18, 2022
Is it worth fixing an axle on a car?
Yes, it is worth fixing an axle, especially because driving with a damaged axle is dangerous and can cause further damage, leading to more expensive repairs. The cost to repair a single axle is typically much lower than the car's total value, making it a worthwhile investment in the vehicle's safety and longevity.
Why you should fix it
- Safety: A broken axle can cause a sudden loss of power or a complete failure of the wheel, which is extremely dangerous and could lead to a serious accident.
- Prevent further damage: A small issue with an axle can lead to more significant and expensive problems in other components, such as the drivetrain, suspension, or tires.
- Cost-effectiveness: Replacing a single axle is a relatively minor repair compared to the total value of a vehicle and is far less costly than dealing with the consequences of a failure.
You can watch this video to learn about the symptoms of a bad CV axle and how to fix it: 42sMaxTheCarGuyYouTube · Oct 29, 2023
What to look for
- Noise: Listen for clicking, popping, or grinding sounds, especially when turning.
- Vibrations: Notice unusual vibrations while driving, particularly at lower speeds.
- Leaking grease: Look for grease splatters on the inside of your wheels or tires, which indicates a leak from the CV joint boot.
- Power loss: A failing axle can result in a loss of power to the wheels.
What to do
- If you notice any of these symptoms, get your vehicle to a mechanic immediately.
- Driving with a broken or damaged axle is not safe, and it's best to replace it as soon as you notice signs of a problem.
How much to fix an axle on a minivan?
The average cost for a CV Axle Replacement is between $1,154 and $1,366. Labor costs are estimated between $201 and $295 while parts are priced between $953 and $1,071.
What is the most common problem with a Honda Odyssey?
Common problems with the Honda Odyssey include issues with the power sliding doors, infotainment and electrical systems, and transmission problems (especially in older models). Other frequent complaints involve engine problems like misfires, oil consumption, and the check engine light, as well as braking system issues such as warped rotors.
This video discusses common issues with the Honda Odyssey, including dashboard and infotainment problems: 1mMaxTheCarGuyYouTube · Jan 25, 2023
Electrical and infotainment
- Infotainment System: Screens may freeze, turn black, or reboot. Bluetooth connectivity can be unreliable, and the backup camera may freeze or show a blank screen.
- Dashboard/Entertainment System: The clock light can burn out, and issues with the infotainment screen are frequent, with some models having defective units or software glitches.
- Honda Sensing: Problems with the safety features have also been reported.
Transmission and engine
- Transmission: Older models, especially those with the five-speed automatic from 1999–2004, had poor reliability and premature wear on the third-gear clutch pack. Newer models have also reported transmission issues.
- Engine: Common engine problems include misfires, difficulty starting, and stalling, often related to faulty spark plugs or ignition switch issues.
- Oil Consumption/Leaks: Some engines consume excessive oil, which can be due to leaking seals or porous engine block casting.
- Vibrations: Engine vibrations are a common complaint, sometimes caused by a failed rear or front engine mount.
- Overheating: Issues with low coolant or a broken radiator can cause the engine to overheat.
You can watch this video to learn about Honda Odyssey transmission problems: 1mThe Passing LaneYouTube · Sep 1, 2024
Doors and brakes
- Power Sliding Doors: Numerous complaints detail failures of the power sliding doors. Some doors may not close properly, have motor assembly issues, or be affected by cable problems that can cause them to open while driving.
- Brakes: Warped front brake rotors are a frequent problem, causing vibration when braking.
Other common problems
- Stalling: Stalling and rough idling can occur due to issues with spark plugs, fuel injectors, or the engine mount.
- Third-Row Seat: The third-row seat may not unlatch properly due to loose latch cables.
- Front Wheel Bearings: Noise from the front wheel bearings is a reported issue.
