Quote:
Originally Posted by RenaissanceMan
I just discovered my driver side outer boot is torn. As I've never done this job before and have no time to do it before having to pack up and leave for a race tomorrow, I'm pricing getting the job done. Kinda caught between a rock and a hard place with limited time (have to tow the racecar with the X5). Dealer quoted me $740, and the local preferred indie quoted me $619. About hit the floor when I heard the quotes, but alas that's what they quoted. Do these prices sound about right for this job??? My last torn boot was covered under CPO warranty, and unfortunately it expired only 2 weeks ago.  Thanks for all the posts on this; definitely going to attempt this myself next time! |
Since you have to drive it. You may end up damaging the bearings. They don't instantlly become ruined once the grease is out though. I know this because I have an aftermarket Axle that does not fit properly and the inside boot cllip got knocked off and al the grease leaked out. It has been over a week now. I ordered a proper axle to replace it, but it has not arrived. I noticed my original one went bad because when I put the car in reverse it clicked a bit. I got under the car and could move, slightly, the axle. It was not completely solit with NO play like it should. If it is still OK then you can get away with a new boot. What I have found though, you better do this yourself. All the cost is labor. You can get an OE BMW boot from the dealership for under $40. Labor is a BIATCH
. I did it though. 4 hours. Now that I know how to do it, I should be able to replace the aftermarket axle with the new one in about 2 hours. One thing is for sure, I will use 2 pry bars. Those solit as hell ones that construction workers use to take appart 2X4s from walls.
Just stay away from sharp turns and WATER. Should be ok for short short time.