Help with axle boot vs axle
 

Help you guys, i am trying to figure out whether or not i actually need to replace both left front and right front axles or just the axle boots. I noticed that the axle boots on both the left front and right front axles had torn and that the grease has begun to leak. I took it to a mechanic and he said that i would have to change the axles on both side... but im' not sure i really need to change the axle or just the axle boots. any suggestion as to how i could decide what exactly needs to be changed?

And if i take it to the dealer should i just get an estimate and leave while having them tell me what needs to be changed so i can have an outside mechanic do the work?

2003 bmw x5 3.0 90k miles
Any help would be appreciated.

If you notice no driveability problems, the axles are probably OK. I'd replace the boots and grease and carry on.

Nothing wrong with replacing the boot only. Places often recommend changing the axle because 1) not sure if the CV joint is damaged, and 2) cost of aftermarket axle is same as boot + extra labor to change the boot.

I repaired/replaced boots in the past (but not on the X5 yet) with mixed results. The time and mess involved was not worth it. It later leaked so slightly because the part did not fit well. Now I just buy whole assemblies.

If you change only the boot and later find the joint is damaged, or the other side boot rips, you have to go back in there and do it again. If I had 90k on original axles, I'd tend to replace them (but that's me.)

Deutche Parts USA in NYC has one side for $96 w/shipping. Since you're in NYC also - it would probably be advantageous to order from them versus FCP Groton (in CT) who also has the parts for a few dollars more.

eBay Motors: BMW X5 E53 3.0 4.4 CV Axle Shaft 02 03 04 05 06 -L (item 140300828273 end time May-12-09 05:08:21 PDT)

Bad Axles will click when you turn.

Turn sharp and drive in a driveway, if you here a click, change them.

I ALWAYS replace the whole axle. It's only a couple dollars more and it makes the repair easier - and you have the peace of mind that it's a new part not a part with 90k on it with a shiny new boot covering potential damage.

My indie replaced mine that had a leaking boot for $140 installed. I dont think repairing the boot would have been worth my time or energy.

thanks you guys. So i think it will be worth it to change the front axles on both sides. is that all i request from the seller? Left and right front axle?

I got a quote today to replace both outer CV boots and the axle for $300 dollars. Does that sound reasonable?... Having it done this saturday regardless.

Sound reasonable to me. But each axle has one outer boot and one inner boot. if you are getting (2) outer boots and (2) axles - that's damn cheap! :thumbup: