Bad CV Axels and FCP rescues me

[synct]

I had my third set of front axels installed on my 2004 X5 by an AAMCO (1st mistake) six weeks ago. I've bought from FCP for years, as I like their lifetime warranty, and have taken advantage of it. They've been reliable. Never a question asked.

Stupidly, I bought the EMPI/Empire axels, contrary to all the good advice here. OK I admit my stupidity. Sure enough, six weeks after installation, both boots are split and the right one is clicking. So, I call back FCP and they agree to replace them on warranty. I think that any axels less than GKN OEM's ($300) are a risk. You blow the savings with one replacement.

Oh, and not going back to AAMCO. Just inept. Get a good indy instead! I found a good guy in Middletown, NJ. I'm running. But, no longer buying junk.

[Kristophe]

Yes EMPI isn't the same company since about two years or so ago, sadly. About all the EMPI axles you find listed for sale on Amazon or eBay today are really "Empire" brand (read the fine print) and is now strictly a low price point -fully made in China axle. I replaced my pass side axle with an actual EMPI I purchased from Pelican Parts almost two years ago and after 23,00 miles both the axle and the boot are holding up very well.

[synct]

I'm getting credit for the Empire's and using it toward the $300 GKN's. They also sell another low priced brand, but I don't want to go through this again. The $300 per axel labor fee is enough to make me buy quality going forward. I was lucky on that last pair that I got saved.

[Ricky Bobby]

^^Stick with GKN on axles, and keep an eye on the boots. If you don't let the joints click from allowing the boots to split and spew grease everywhere you wouldn't basically ever need to replace the OE axles. Preventative maintenance with the boots is key.

[synct]

I got credit for the EMPI's and applied it toward the GKN's which were 3-4 times as much.