1996 Toyota Camry Front and Back Torn Boot

RAKESHPANCHAL

MEMBER
1996 TOYOTA CAMRY
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
112,846 MILES

Hi, I have been told to replace both front and back Axel boot during recent 20 point inspection and oild service. Dealer is asking for 235USD per boot replacement. Could you pls. Help me with the proce okay thing and how can I look to and find out whether it is really needed right away or I can manage.

One more question I have is same time I have been told to replace Serpentene belt and quote is about 190 USD. Is it really that much?

Would highly appreciate your reply.

1 Reply

DSPLC

MECHANIC
220 POSTS

Just replacing the rubber boot for the axle - $235 each. Ouchh!! You do not need the dealer to do it. If you get Pennysaver or Recycler magazine, there are few shops that replace the whole thing for $125 part and labor. There are two CV axle halfshafts. Right side and left side.The CV axle halfshaft at Kragen or Autozone (rebuilt) is $70.00 each, GSP brand (new but made in China) is $70.00 too. Mine, I bought the GSP (all new, not rebuilt), still works great for more than a year now.
Suggestion: Buy the part and call the repair shop, some tire shop does it too and ask how much to replace the whole CV axle halfshaft . Just labor, you buy the parts. The bottom picture is the one you are going to buy (the whole CV axle halfshaft). This is the passenger side, the driver's side is shorter.
Also, check transmission fluid level after replacement. While replacing the CV axle, transmission fluid might spill a little.

To check the axle rubber boot. Check the rubber for cracks or rip or cut. The rubber boot holds the grease inside the axle bearing. If you see cracks but no grease leaking, you can still drive it. If you see rip or cut, you definitely need to replaced it.