Constant velocity (CV) joints might be small, but they’re vital auto parts for a smooth ride — especially when turning or hitting bumps. They connect your transmission to the wheels, keeping your drive steady.
Without a well-functioning CV joint, your car wouldn’t get far.
If you suspect failing CV joints, don’t wait — catching the issue in time can prevent bigger (and costlier) problems down the road.
Wondering what’s the CV joint replacement cost?
We’ll reveal the standard charges and signs of a failing CV joint so that you can address the issue before it worsens. We’ll also explore whether a DIY replacement is feasible.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does a CV Joint Replacement Cost?
- Is It Worth Replacing a Bad CV Joint?
- 5 Prominent Signs You Need a CV Joint Replacement
- How Long Do CV Joints Last?
- Can You Replace CV Joints Yourself?
- Is a CV Joint Replacement Covered Under Warranty?
How Much Does a CV Joint Replacement Cost?
Here’s what car owners can expect to pay for installing new constant velocity joints:
A. Range
Replacing a CV joint costs between $1,000 and $1,080.
This includes:
- Parts’ cost: $830 to $850
- Labor cost: $170 to $230
B. Factors Affecting Average Cost
The price of replacing a CV joint can vary depending on local labor rates as well as the make and model of your car.
A few other factors that can influence the overall cost at the repair shop include:
- CV joint type: CV joints come in various types — Rzeppa, double offset, tripod, ball-type, and Tracta. Due to their complex design, double offset joints are the most expensive, while tripod joints with simpler builds are the cheapest.
- OEM vs. aftermarket car parts: OEM (original equipment manufacturer) CV joints will cost more than aftermarket ones, as the former are more durable and perform better.
- Repair complexity: In some vehicles, especially all-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) models, replacing the CV joint requires extensive disassembly due to more complex drivetrains. This increases the labor cost compared to standard front-wheel drive (FWD) vehicles.
- Additional repairs: If other components, such as wheel bearings or CV axles, are damaged, the mechanic will include their costs in your expenses. For example, getting a new CV axle at the repair shop can add another $760 to $1,050 to your final bill.
Is It Worth Replacing a Bad CV Joint?
Absolutely!
A failing CV joint can lead to unpredictable wheel movement, making steering difficult and dangerous. Even worse, it can cause complete drivetrain failure — so replacing it is necessary.
5 Prominent Signs You Need a CV Joint Replacement
Visit a car repair mechanic if you notice:
- Noises when turning: Clicking or popping sounds, especially during turns, indicate CV joint wear, often due to grease loss.
- Grease leaking around the tire: If you notice yellow or black grease on the rim of the affected wheel or inside its well, the CV boot has likely leaked.
- Excessive vibrations: Severe vibrations or bouncing suggest a critical CV joint or axle failure. A broken CV axle can damage nearby components like the struts or brake lines, making driving unsafe.
- The car won’t move forward: A severely damaged CV joint can make the entire axle unstable, affecting drivability and steering. The axle may no longer transfer power to the wheels properly, preventing the vehicle from moving forward.
- Wobbly axle: A failing CV joint causes the entire axle to wobble, especially during acceleration. You can have a mechanic check for CV axle looseness by lifting the vehicle and inspecting for excessive play near the joint.
How Long Do CV Joints Last?
Constant velocity joints are designed to last your vehicle’s lifetime, which is around 200,000 miles.
However, they may fail due to:
- Impact from curbs or potholes
- Constant movement and stress over time that cause the joint to degrade
- Tears in the CV boot from physical impact or aging that lead to lubricant loss
- Manufacturing defects
Can You Replace CV Joints Yourself?
If you lack experience in auto repairs, it’s best to consult a professional mechanic for replacing critical car parts like the CV joint.
Here’s what a mechanic will do:
- Park the car on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Lift the vehicle using a hydraulic jack and secure it with jack stands.
- Use a lug wrench to remove the wheel to access the CV joint.
- Remove the cotter pin and castle nut, then use a pry bar to separate the ball joint from the steering knuckle.
- Unscrew the caliper bolts and hang the caliper aside. Detach the ABS (anti-lock braking system) sensor or brake line if needed.
- Use a proper socket to loosen and remove the axle nut. This will detach the CV joint and axle from the wheel hub.
- Inspect the CV boot for tears or grease leakage, as a damaged boot can lead to premature joint failure.
- Use a pry bar to gently release the CV joint from the transmission or differential and pull the axle out.
- Align splines, push the new CV axle assembly (containing the new CV joint) into the transmission or differential, and secure it.
- Reattach the ball joint to the steering knuckle. Then, tighten the castle nut and install a new cotter pin.
- Reconnect the caliper, ABS sensor, and any detached components.
- Torque the axle nut to manufacturer specifications and reinstall the wheel.
- Lower the vehicle and test drive the car to ensure there are no odd sounds or vibrations.
Is a CV Joint Replacement Covered Under Warranty?
If the original warranty still covers your car, the CV joints will be repaired or replaced at no cost.
However, the warranty likely won’t cover the damage caused by an external impact (like hitting a curb or pothole). It would be considered accidental damage rather than a manufacturing defect.
If you have an extended warranty, carefully review your contract to check whether CV joint replacement is included, as coverage can vary.
Get Brand New CV Joints for a Smoother, Safer Ride
A failing CV joint doesn’t just affect your ride — it can seriously impact your car’s stability and safety.
The good news?
Regular inspections can catch early signs of trouble before they turn into a costly repair.
But if you suspect your CV joint is already worn out and making your ride unsafe, contact AutoNation Mobile Service.
Our mobile mechanics can replace your CV joint right from your driveway and get you back on the road quickly. We also offer a 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty on various services, including brake rotor replacement, wheel bearing repair, and more.
Schedule your CV joint replacement today.