Universal Joint Replacement Cost Estimate
Worried you might overpay for your universal joint (u-joint) replacement? Use Mymechanic to get a fair cost estimate for your universal joint (u-joint) replacement.
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How much does it cost to replace a universal joint?
You can expect an average total replacement cost for a U-joint, with parts and mechanic labor contributing to the overall expense. The exact price will depend on your vehicle.
How long does it take to replace a U-joint?
In general, it takes around 2.2 hours for a certified mechanic to complete the job. The mechanic will first perform a preliminary inspection to determine if a replacement is necessary and then proceed with the full replacement if needed.
How did we estimate these prices?
My Mechanic experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all states in Malaysia, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified MyMechanic in Malaysia, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair.
What parts do I need for my universal joint replacement and how much do those parts cost?
Consult your owner’s manual or ask your mechanic for the exact part numbers. Here are the parts you’ll need for the replacement:
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New U-joint:If more than one U-joint is failing, pick up several replacement U-joints. A universal joint is a small but important part that allows the driveshaft to move up and down as your vehicle drives over rough surfaces.
Some popular U-joint brands are available from various auto parts stores or online retailers.
You'll also need special tools, though the specific tools required depend on the U-joints in your vehicle and whether you need to remove other components of your car to access the driveshaft.
In general, here’s what you’ll need:
- Floor jack and jack stands
- Ratchet and socket sets
- Screwdrivers
- Wrench set
- Snap-ring pliers
- U-joint puller or C-clamp (U-joint removal tool)
- Torque wrench
- Breaker bar or impact wrench
- Vise
Some people prefer to invest more in suspension parts that experience significant wear and tear. OEM parts come with a quality guarantee, ensuring you won’t risk voiding your warranty by installing them. However, if you’re on a budget or want the convenience of picking up parts locally, aftermarket replacement parts are a good option.
Shop for a new U-joint at your local auto body or auto parts shops. If you know the replacement part number, you can also order universal joints online from various retailers.
Where can I get my car's universal joint replaced?
With the rundown on 2,500+ vetted repair shops nationwide, Mymechanic can make the search for a mechanic to replace your universal joint a lot easier.
Mymechanic compares fair price estimates from local shops using actual hourly rates. You’ll be able to budget for diagnostic fees and see reviews from previous customers to make sure you’ll be happy with your service.
How did we vet these shops?
My Mechanic experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the Malaysia. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually.
How will a mechanic replace my universal joint?
Even if just one u-joint is broken, it’s best to have your mechanic replace both joints at the same time since the other is likely to fail soon. Here are the steps your mechanic will typically take to replace the universal joints:
- Raise the rear of the vehicle:First, they’ll use a floor jack and jack stands to elevate your car.
- Mark the driveshaft:The mechanic will mark where the driveshaft mates with the differential flange using a marker. This ensures easier reinstallation of the driveshaft later on.
- Remove the driveshaft:Next, they'll proceed to remove the nuts or bolts securing the driveshaft to the differential. This step enables the mechanic to extract the driveshaft from the vehicle.
- Remove the old universal joint:The mechanic removes the snap rings or fasteners that secure the bearing cups, also known as bearing caps.
- Install the new universal joints and snap rings:If the new U-joints require lubrication, the mechanic will position them in a way that allows access with a grease gun. Then, they'll clean the driveshaft yoke and install the replacement U-joint.
- Reinstall the driveshaft:Finally, the mechanic will reinsert the rear of the driveshaft back into position, ensuring that the marks align with the differential flange. Then, they'll securely fasten it in place.
That completes the replacement process, but the mechanic should also inspect the transmission fluid level, as there might have been some loss during the driveshaft removal.
Is it okay to drive with a bad U-joint?
If you suspect there's an issue with your car's universal joint, it's crucial not to delay getting an inspection. Continuing to drive your car with a potential problem can lead to various issues, including:
- Leaky seals on the transmission shaft or transfer case may occur.
- Damage to the driveshaft
- Bearing failure
- Inability to drive the vehicle
What is a universal joint?
Rear-wheel drive vehicles depend on flexibility in their drivetrain and suspension systems.
The universal joints facilitate additional movement. As your car traverses rough terrain, the U-joints enable the driveshaft to move up and down, transferring power from the transmission to the rear wheels.
The U-joints endure significant strain. Over time, the force exerted by the driveshaft can lead to wear on the U-joint bearings, particularly if they are not regularly lubricated.
What are the symptoms of a worn universal joint?
U-joints typically exhibit warning signs that gradually worsen before the joint completely fails. These are the most common indicators that it's time to replace a faulty U-joint:
- Car vibration:You may notice the car vibrating as the driveshaft vibrates more due to the worsening condition of the U-joint.
- Unusual noises:Clunking, rapid chirping, and banging sounds, particularly noticeable when shifting gears, suggest that the universal joint requires inspection.
How many miles do universal joints last?
Universal joints typically last a long time with proper vehicle maintenance. Most U-joints can endure around 100,000 miles, though they may wear out prematurely in case of accidents or inadequate maintenance.
Can I replace a U-joint myself?
If you're confident in your DIY auto repair skills, you should be able to replace a universal joint at home. However, it's important to note that you should feel comfortable working on the driveshaft and ensure you have a well-stocked garage with the necessary tools.
FAQs
A clunking sound is commonly heard when a U-joint fails, but you might also notice a vibration or a squeaking sound when you begin to drive.
A universal joint undergoes significant stress, so wear and tear can lead to its failure. Factors such as insufficient lubrication, incorrect installation, aggressive off-road driving, and excessive torque can also contribute to a universal joint breaking.
