How much will it cost to replace a CV joint?

Typical CV joint replacement costs about 300–800 dollars per axle in the United States. If you only need a boot or a single joint replaced, the price can be significantly lower. Costs vary by vehicle, region, and whether you replace just the boot, the joint, or the entire axle.

What a CV joint is and when replacement is needed

CV joints (constant-velocity joints) transmit torque from the transmission to the wheels while allowing for steering and suspension movement. They are housed in CV axles and sealed by a grease-filled boot. A torn boot lets in dirt and lets grease escape, which accelerates joint wear. Common symptoms include a clicking or popping sound when turning, especially at speed, vibration under load, or grease splattered around the wheel area. If the joint is worn, replacement is needed; if the boot is torn but the joint remains healthy, replacing just the boot may be possible.

Inner vs outer CV joint

Most cars have an inner CV joint near the transmission and an outer CV joint near the wheel. Outer joints typically wear faster due to higher torque and steering activity, but both can fail. In practice, many technicians replace the entire CV axle assembly (which includes both joints and the boot) for reliability and speed, rather than repairing just one joint.

Cost overview and scenarios

Below are common replacement scenarios and typical price ranges as of 2024–2025. Costs include parts and labor but can vary by region, vehicle, and shop.

• Replacing the entire CV axle assembly (the most common approach): Parts typically 50–250 dollars for aftermarket parts; 200–400 dollars for OEM; labor 150–300 dollars; total per axle usually 300–800 dollars. Luxury or specialized vehicles can be higher.


• Replacing just the CV joint on an existing axle: Parts roughly 100–300 dollars; labor 150–350 dollars; total roughly 250–650 dollars, depending on access and joint design.


• Replacing only the CV boot (when the joint is still healthy): Boot kit 20–60 dollars; additional grease and clamps; labor 80–200 dollars; total typically 100–260 dollars.

Note: In many shops, replacing the axle is faster and fixes more wear issues at once, which is why axle replacement is often the standard service even if the joint itself could be repaired.

Factors that affect cost

Several factors influence the final price you’ll pay for a CV joint or axle replacement. The main variables are:

• Vehicle type and axle design (front-wheel drive cars often have two CV axles; all-wheel-drive or heavy-duty vehicles may require more expensive parts or two axles).


• Quality of parts (aftermarket vs OEM, remanufactured vs new) and warranty length.


• Labor rates by region and shop (dealerships typically charge more than independent shops).


• Extent of damage (boot damage with contaminated grease vs a joint that’s already worn; visible noise or vibration may indicate additional components need replacement).


• Geographic factors (urban areas tend to be pricier; taxes and disposal fees apply).

Understanding these factors helps you interpret quotes and decide whether you need to replace a boot, a joint, or the entire axle.

Saving money and getting quotes

To keep costs in check, consider these strategies and request detailed estimates.

• Shop around and get multiple, itemized quotes for parts and labor from independent shops and dealerships.


• Ask if you can supply your own parts or if the shop offers a credit against labor when you provide parts.


• Where feasible, replace both CV axles at the same time to potentially save on labor and ensure balanced wear.


• Ask about warranties on parts and labor; some shops offer longer warranties on axle assemblies than on individual joints.


• Check for promotions or discounts, and consider the total value including future reliability and warranty coverage.

Bottom line: getting several quotes and choosing a reputable shop with clear warranties can save you hundreds of dollars and reduce the risk of a return visit for the same issue.

Summary

Replacing a CV joint or axle is a common maintenance item with prices that vary widely by vehicle and location. For most vehicles in the United States, budgeting around 300–800 dollars per axle for a full CV axle replacement is reasonable, while boot-only or joint-only repairs typically fall in the low hundreds. Always diagnose properly, compare multiple quotes, and weigh the long-term reliability and warranty when making a decision.

Is a CV joint expensive to fix?

Replacing a CV joint can be moderately expensive, with a single axle replacement typically costing between $300 and $1,500, including parts and labor. The total price is highly dependent on the specific vehicle, as parts for more expensive or complex cars can cost significantly more, and labor rates vary by location and make/model. 
Cost breakdown

• Parts: A single CV axle typically costs between $80 and $300, but can be as high as $1,500 for luxury or performance vehicles. 
• Labor: Expect to pay between $160 and $400 for labor, as a single axle replacement takes about 1.5 to 3 hours. 
• Total: A single axle replacement will generally fall between $300 and $1,500. 

Factors that influence the cost

• Vehicle Make and Model: Parts for common cars are cheaper than those for luxury or performance vehicles, which can cost significantly more. 
• Labor Rates: The cost of labor varies by location and the shop's hourly rate. 
• Complexity: The time needed for a replacement can increase if the vehicle is more complex or if components are seized with rust. 
• Replacement Scope: Replacing both front axles can be more cost-effective than doing them one at a time, as it may reduce overall labor hours. 
• CV Boot vs. CV Joint: If only the boot is torn but the joint is still intact (especially on a newer vehicle), replacing just the boot is a cheaper option than replacing the entire axle. 

Why you shouldn't delay a replacement

• Safety Hazard: A failed CV joint can cause a loss of power or a complete loss of control, which is particularly dangerous at high speeds.
• Further Damage: A broken CV joint can cause additional damage to other drivetrain and suspension components if not addressed promptly. 

Can I still drive with a bad CV joint?

No, you should not drive with a bad CV joint because it is a safety risk that can lead to a sudden loss of control, further damage to your vehicle, and a complete breakdown. While it might seem to work for a while, a failing joint can disintegrate, leaving you stranded and potentially causing a serious accident. 
Risks of driving with a bad CV joint

• Loss of control: The joint can fail suddenly, causing you to lose power to the wheels, especially during turns or at high speeds. 
• Accidents: A catastrophic failure can lead to a loss of control that may cause a crash. 
• Further damage: Driving on a bad joint can cause more extensive damage to other parts of the car, such as the wheel bearings, transmission, and differential, resulting in more expensive repairs. 
• Stranding: You could be left stranded on the side of the road, potentially in a dangerous situation. 
• Brake failure: A complete failure can cause the wheel hub to come apart, leading to brake issues and the risk of the wheel falling off. 

What to do instead

• Drive to a mechanic immediately: If you notice any symptoms, such as a clicking or popping sound when turning, vibrations, or a leaking boot, have your vehicle inspected by a professional as soon as possible. 
• Don't delay repairs: The cost of a CV joint replacement is relatively minor compared to the potential cost of further damage and safety risks associated with ignoring the problem. 

How much does a mechanic charge to change a CV axle?

A shop will likely charge between $300 and $1,500 to replace one CV axle, though the total cost can range from $200 to over $600 for some common vehicles. The final price depends on the vehicle's make and model, with luxury or performance cars costing more, and factors like labor rates in your area. 
Factors that influence the cost

• Vehicle make and model: Parts for common cars like a Honda Civic are much cheaper than for a luxury vehicle like a BMW or a high-performance sports car. 
• Labor costs: This is often the most significant part of the cost. It can vary by shop and location, and some vehicles require more complex or time-consuming work. 
• Type of part: You can choose from different quality levels of replacement axles, from cheap aftermarket parts to more expensive OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts. 
• Condition of the vehicle: If there is significant rust or other complications, the labor time will increase, raising the final price. 

How to estimate the cost

• For a common, non-luxury vehicle: Expect the total to be in the $300–$600 range for one axle, as parts are typically $90–$150 and labor is around 1.5–3 hours. 
• For a luxury or performance vehicle: The cost will be much higher, with a single axle replacement possibly costing over $1,500. 
• For a dealership: Expect to pay about 40% more for labor than at a trusted independent mechanic. 

Tips to save money

• Shop around: Get quotes from a few different mechanics to compare prices. 
• Bundle repairs: If you also need other work done, like a brake replacement, see if you can get a discount by doing the CV axle replacement at the same time. 

Can I replace a CV joint myself?

While one can repack, reboot and rebuild CV axles, it makes more sense for the average do-it-yourselfer to procure replacement units and swap out the old axles. If a boot is torn or missing, it is possible to save the joint if caught early enough, but usually the damage has already been done.