How Much Does it Cost to Replace a CV Boot?

Every CV axle has two joints, and each CV joint is surrounded by a CV boot, protecting it from moisture and dirt. A damaged boot cannot protect the CV joint, oftentimes leading to damage.

Sometimes, it is difficult to establish how long the CV boot has been damaged. It can, therefore, be difficult to determine the extent of the damage to the joint. Some mechanics recommend replacing the entire driveshaft once the CV boot damage has been discovered because the replacement cost for the entire driveshaft is similar to replacing the boot on its own because of the labor involved.

How much does a CV boot replacement cost?

On average, replacing a CV boot, which in most cases will mean replacing the axle/shaft, can be expensive since it is difficult to access. On average, it can cost between $175 to $350+ per CV boot, depending upon the model, make and type of car, although some luxury vehicles can cost upwards of $1,000 each.  The costs could be about 20 to 30 percent higher if they were to replace the entire shaft/axle.

With hundreds of quotes reported online, we picked out a few we found and included our findings in the table below:

As for those who want to do the job on their own, the average cost of a CV boot repair kit can range anywhere from $8 to $25 on average.

At AutoZone, for instance, the top sellers are all less than $20.

CV boot replacement overview

To diagnose the issue, the process is fairly straightforward as a leak or seepage can be seen around the CV boot once on a lift.

When a CV boot is torn, cracked or fails because of age, it can be difficult to establish how long it has been compromised and the extent of damage done to the CV joint. In some instances, a repair shop simply replaces the CV boot, but most of the time, a mechanic will want to replace the entire CV axle since the costs are roughly the same.

During the repair, the wheel and lower ball joint will be removed in order to free the CV axle.  Then, once the axle is removed, the CB and/or output seals will be replaced and either a new CV axle will be installed or the original one will be put back on.  Replacing the CV axle will all depend on the condition and how the car is running.

What are the extra costs?

Replacing the joint can cost an additional $100+, again, depending on the factors mentioned prior.

Some shops will include a wheel alignment in the cost, but if not, it could be an additional $20 to $50+.

Tips to know:

A CV boot is a protective cover, typically made of plastic, rubber or a similar compound, which offers protection for the CV joints. These joints allow the front-axle to manage the torque that is produced by the drive wheels.

A CV boot can be found in every front-wheel drive vehicle and some four-wheel or rear-wheel drive vehicles.  There is usually one boot behind each front wheel.

The interior of the CV boot is usually lubricated or greased to protect the CV joint when it is in motion. The material, which makes up the CV boot, may tear or rip as it degrades, thereby reducing its capacity to protect the CV joint. A CV boot that is torn or ripped cannot retain its lubrication.

Replace a CV boot as soon as possible, especially if you notice larger leaks.  If you fail to replace it, the leaks will continue to become larger, often making the problem worse.

A leak or faulty CV boot can occur at some point in a vehicle’s lifetime, but for the most part, a good CV boot will last 80,000 to 100,000 miles, but driving habits, as mentioned by RepairPal, can greatly affect this number.

How can I save money?

A DIY CV boot kit can cost you $5 to $35, depending upon the model, make and type of vehicle, and the project, depending on the skillset, will usually take around three to four hour to complete.  Again, this should be left up to someone who has the knowledge to perform the job.

Most of the time, it will make more economic sense for you to replace the axle rather than just the boot. A replacement CV axle, for example, can cost $50 and $150 or more.

Always talk with three to five mechanics to see what they charge.  As long as you know this is the issue, most shops can offer a ballpark estimate over the phone.

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Average Reported Cost: $597.5

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How much did you spend?

1. A (las vegas,  Nevada) paid $695 and said:

   Just a quote from the dealership

   Was it worth it? Yes
   

2. Miz (Torrance,  California) paid $500 and said:

   Inner cv boot

   Was it worth it? Yes