CV Joint - How do they fail ?

[mfee]

I have a 98 Mounty V8 AWD with 128 K - I notice some creaking noise in the front end at low rolling speed but the vehicle drives fine otherwise. The boots are all intact with no leaks.

1. is it just time for CV replacement at this mileage
2. will they fail slowly or catastophically
3. will the boot leak first
4. what is typical shop repair cost for one side
5. what are some typical signs of CV going bad that effect driving

thanks for any input

mike

 

[00XLS]

I have a 98 Mounty V8 AWD with 128 K - I notice some creaking noise in the front end at low rolling speed but the vehicle drives fine otherwise. The boots are all intact with no leaks.

1. is it just time for CV replacement at this mileage
2. will they fail slowly or catastophically
3. will the boot leak first
4. what is typical shop repair cost for one side
5. what are some typical signs of CV going bad that effect driving

thanks for any input

mike

I would think with that mileage esp with an AWD vehicle that their about shot. They usually fail slowly but I have heard of them failing catastrophically, but that was only in extreme cases. The boot doesn't always have to leak, the cost I would think is around $200 per side, purely an estimate because I usually do them myself. You'll hear a creak when turning the wheel while moving, esp more I would imagine with the AWD always giving a little power to the front wheels. I'd get a manuel and give it a shot yourself, save some money.

 

[rhyno]

Before you go and replace them, remember that there are many other things in the front end that could be causing the creaking sound. With the cold weather, something as simple as the a-arm bushings can make horrible creaking sounds over small bumps on a truck with your milage.