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How to Replace an Axle Assembly

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Parts needed: Suggest Parts
Axle Assembly
Tools needed: Suggest Tools
Jack Stand Set 3/8 in. Drive Ratchet
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Estimated Costs:

DIY Costs
Est. $78.26 parts only Shop Costs
Est. $280.02 in parts and labor
Costs are based on averages for all vehicles.

Guide Steps

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1
 
Park the vehicle on a solid level surface.  Set the parking brake and chock the rear wheels. edit step - submit photo
2
 
Loosen the front wheel lug nuts, but do not remove.   Lift up the front of the vehicle using a floor jack. edit step - submit photo
Jack lifting vehicle up by pinch weld
3
 
Support the vehicle with jack stands on both sides for safety before starting any work. The pinch welds and the frame rails are the two best locations. Do not rely on the jack to hold the vehicle up while working. edit step - submit photo
Jack stand supporting vehicle by the pinch weld
4
 
Remove the lug nuts.  Remove the front wheels and set them aside. edit step - submit photo
5
 
Inspect the CV boots and joints for damage. edit step - submit photo
Tear in CV Boot
6
 
Remove the axle nut from the damaged axle assembly. edit step - submit photo
7
 
Support the lower control arm with a floor jack.  Disconnect the lower ball joint and tie rod end from the steering knuckle. edit step - submit photo
8
 
To remove the steering knuckle from the axle assembly, push the axle in and lift the steering knuckle up and out.  Support the steering knuckle with wire. edit step - submit photo
9
 
Pull the axle assembly out of the transaxle or differential.  Hit the axle assembly with a rubber mallet if necessary. edit step - submit photo
10
 
Insert the new axle assembly into the transaxle or differential. edit step - submit photo
11
 
Install the outer joint of the axle assembly into the steering knuckle/hub assembly. edit step - submit photo
12
 
Reattach the lower ball joint and tire rod end to the steering knuckle. edit step - submit photo
13
 
Install the axle nut. edit step - submit photo
14
 
Reinstall the front wheels.  Snug down the lug nuts. edit step - submit photo
15
 
Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle to the ground. edit step - submit photo
16
 
Torque the axle nut and the wheel lug nuts (in a star pattern) to the manufacturer's specifications.  edit step - submit photo
17
 
Test drive the vehicle to verify the repair. edit step - submit photo
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