How Much Does Broken Axle Repair Cost?


Written by:  Howmuchisit.org Staff

An axle is that straight shaft that is located underneath the vehicle.  This is a part that is easy to see by simply glancing under the car.

The basic function of the axle is to keep the wheels in place.  Aside from this function, an axle is also responsible for absorbing the brake and acceleration of the vehicle and bears the whole weight of the car.

There are three kinds of axles in a vehicle:  a straight axle, split-axle, and the tandem axle.  The most common type of axle is the split axle — where the tires on the right and left side of the car are connected separately.  This allows the two sides to absorb bumps and dips differently, giving the car a smoother ride.  It also allows the tires to turn at different speeds, giving the car better traction when going through turns.  The type of axle in your car will depend on its make and model.

If you begin to feel a strange vibration as you drive, this is a good indication that there is something wrong with your car.  Most often, the problem lies in the axle.  In some cases, there may just be something out of line; other times, however, the axle may have broken.  A broken axle needs to be fixed immediately; otherwise, it can cause substantial damage to your vehicle.

Austin A40 rear axle by dave_7, on Flickr
Austin A40 rear axle” (CC BY 2.0) by  dave_7

How much does it cost to repair a broken axle?

On average, the costs to repair an axle will depend the repair required, the car you drive, the number of sides, which axle and the mechanic you hire.  If the entire axle on both sides has to be replaced, the costs, on average, will be in the $300 to $1,000 range.  In most cases, the axle and shaft will be replaced, and depending on the circumstances, it may be done on one side, but most mechanics recommend replacing both sides.  If a mechanic were to replace only one side, then the costs will be about half of the estimate noted, around $150 to $350, on average.

RepairPal listed some quotes for a front axle shaft replacement, with prices ranging from $252 to $1,064 for a front axle replacement.

Repairing a broken axel

Before the mechanic even works on your car, he or she will first want to confirm the axle is the culprit.  Performing a test drive, they will pay close attention to the CV joints, which are the parts that connect the axle and the wheel together, for any clicking noise, a sign the CV axles need to be replaced.  If the problem is coming from the CV boots — the parts that covers the CV joints — and there’s no damage to the gears, then the CV boot may only be fixed.  If your car has a straight axle, then the wheels may be turned manually to see if there’s an issue.

To remove the axle, a mechanic will first remove the differential cover and disconnect the axles from the differential.  Then, the brake drum, rotor, hub and the axle will be removed, and during this process, if there’s any damage seen where the bearings meet the axle, then it must be replaced.

What are the extra costs?

Some shops will include a wheel alignment with their quotes, but some shops won’t.  If the shop does charge for an alignment, then you should be prepared to pay another $20 to $200, depending on the car you drive and the repairs being performed.  Most of the time, a wheel alignment isn’t required after a CV boot and/or axle were replaced.

As noted, if any other parts, such as the bearings, CV joint and/or CV boot, are in poor condition, then a mechanic may want to swap the parts out while the car is already disassembled.

Tips to know:

If you suspect that there has been damage to your vehicle’s axle, try putting it into gear.  If you hear a sudden thud, it may mean your car’s axle is broken.  If you’re noticing some bumping, clicking or grinding when you’re making a turn, then it’s probably the CV joint that’s failing and the axle will slowly fail in the future.

A broken axle may be caused by overloading, bad carrier bearing, or an intense impact or bump on the road.

How can I save money?

With any car repair, try to get as many quotes as possible.  While you don’t want to focus on the price, pay close attention to the mechanic’s history, reputation and always make sure they are certified and insured.

Some shops do offer discounts to AAA members, senior citizen, military members and/or students.  Be sure to ask about any discounts before getting the repair.


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Average Reported Cost: $412.5

100 %
0 %
Less Expensive $1 $1.5K $3K $5K $6.5K More Expensive $8k

How much did you spend?

Was it worth it?  

  1. discount tire centers (west covina,  California) paid $195 and said:

    the front left side

    Was it worth it? Yes

  2. And (Houston,  Texas) paid $630 and said:

    Towing and repair

    Was it worth it? Yes

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