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The universal joint is a small joint that allows the shaft to rotate. It keeps the shaft from breaking when the wheels move and permits a wide variety of movement. This hinge allows movement in any direction and permits independent movement between two separate but connected shafts. We are going to look at what you can expect when the universal joint malfunctions and needs replacing.

You will pay somewhere between $190 and $260 for replacement of the universal joint. The labor on this job should cost you between $170 and $210, while parts can run between $20 and $50.

Universal Joint Replacement Cost Comparison

Your Mechanic

Work Warranty Price
Parts & Labour 12 months $125-$367

 

Midas

Work Warranty Price
Parts & Labour 12 months $117-$275

 

Mr. Tire

Work Warranty Price
Parts & Labour 12 months $134-$341

 

NAPA

Work Warranty Price
Parts & Labour 24 months $140-$376

 

Walmart

Work Warranty Price
Parts Limited $14-$220

 

Amazon

Work Warranty Price
Parts Limited $19-$250

What Is Universal Joint Replacement?

Generally, this is a quick and simple replacement procedure. The mechanic can take off the parts without replacing them and without having to move a lot of other components out of the way. If you catch the problem early enough, you only have to deal with minor repairs and replacement costs, but more severe problems can entail a longer service time and more parts needing to be replaced.

Benefits of Universal Joint Replacement

When you get the universal joint fixed, you benefit from a vehicle that won’t shake or squeak as much and make as much noise. You are also preventing your vehicle from breaking down on you or falling apart further. The sooner you get the universal jot repaired, the safer your car will be and the better your chances will be of not having to replace a number of parts.

What Is Done during Universal Joint Replacement?

The universal joint may be removed all at once or in pieces, depending on the kind of car you have. To take it off, the mechanic will need to remove the retaining clips. Then the joints will have to be slid out one side at a time from the yokes. From there, the mechanic can slide in the new universal joints and put the retaining clips back into place.

Once everything is back where it should be, the mechanic will test the vehicle to ensure that the joint is secure and that there are no other related problems.

When to Get Universal Joint Replacement

If your universal joint is starting to malfunction, then you should not be driving the vehicle. Every time you force it to move in a weakened condition, it will likely squeak and shake, and there is a chance that it will break off completely, leaving your vehicle pretty much inoperable. If you know there is a problem with the universal joint, then you should have the vehicle towed or stop driving it right away until the problem is resolved.

If the universal joint is failing, then you may notice a chirping noise as you drive the car or it may vibrate when in motion. The vehicle may also make a loud clinking sound whenever you put it into drive or reverse.

If the universal joint is malfunctioning, it can last 100,000 miles or more, and it is not something you should need to check regularly.

How to Save Money on Universal Joint Replacement

There are a few ways that you can try to save some money on this repair. The best way test to just get it taken care of as soon as you realize that there is a problem. That way, you won’t have as many parts to replace.

Secondly, you can try to replace the parts yourself, and it’s not an overly complex DIY project, so even those without much experience in car repair should be able to handle this.

Finally, you can compare prices on the cost of labor and parts to see what the best deal available is. You may be surprised at how much money you could save just by shopping around.

Sample Universal Joint Replacement Costs

Model Labor Parts Total
Ford F-Series $167-$211 $24-$39 $191-$250
Chevrolet Silverado $105-$134 $208-$232 $313-$366
Ford Focus $167-$211 $24-$39 $191-$250
Toyota Camry $167-$211 $22-$48 $189-$259
Toyota Corolla $167-$211 $22-$48 $189-$259
Nissan Altima $105-$134 $16-$33 $121-$167
Honda CR-V $167-$211 $68-$116 $235-$327
Honda Civic $167-$211 $68-$116 $235-$327
Honda Accord $167-$211 $68-$116 $235-$327
Ford Fusion $167-$211 $24-$39 $191-$250

Universal Joint Costs Submitted By Our Users


Compare your quote to other individuals from around the country to make sure you are getting the best deal. The average for Universal Joint is $360

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