Why?

Thanks for the replies, I'm pretty much a newb. Is it that just the boots are torn and they just want me to pay for a whole axle replacement?

 

Usually by the time you notice the boot is busted the damage has already started. I would normally say if there are no driveability problems and there is no clicking and it's just the boot that is busted then have them replace the boot and re-pack it with grease BUT, there is only like $50-60 price difference between the boots only and the whole axle. Add to that that the labor is about the same and you might as well just change the whole axle.

FYI: It's usually much cheaper to have an independent mechanic you can trust do this job than the dealer. Or find a Honda club/group in your area and ask for help. Or if you want to DIY there are very good ones on this site and some good videos on Youtube.

 

To further what lazlong said...

You should buy a manual and start doing your own work. It will save you a ton of money.

It's not difficult to rebuild the axle yourself if it were to fail. A boot replacement is extremely easy, and they're inexpensive. Click this link to verify.
(note: The link shows axles for a 2001 EX coupe with a manual transmission. If this is not what your car is, please go to the homepage and select your car to verify part numbers)


Ultimately it breaks down to whether you have the will and ability to do it yourself, or if you'd just rather pay the dealership to do it. Weigh the cost of your options, then choose the route you'd like to take.

I still say you should buy a manual and learn to work on your own car, though.

 

thanks for the replies guys.
I bought the manual and had a look. (I have an auto trans)

I thought it was above my skill level so i asked a local mechanic to do it. He charged me $60 labor. Good deal?

He did other stuff where I paid him extra.

So basically for $295 labor, he changed both sides ball joints, control arm bushings, passanger side axle and both front struts.

Sounds about right? or not?

 

How long did it take him to do the work? If it was between four and five hours, yes, the price is right.


Just curious, which manual did you buy? Helms is the one you want, I'm assuming you bought a Chilton or Haynes, or something along those lines.

 

Haynes. Helms is better? I can return the Haynes..

it took two of them about 3.5 hours to do the work.

 

3.5 hours and it cost $295? Doesn't add up, even with tax. Did that include any parts?

Yeah, Helms is better. Helms is the actual Honda MoCo. service manual. You can find used ones for sale floating around the net. I got mine for $20 from an elderly couple on craigslist. Mint condition, not even a fingerprint or dogeared page.

 

it was two of them working on the car. one on each side.

no, I bought all the parts. (Its 295 because I paid 45 to a shop to get the bushings pressed out and new ones in. I paid the guys 250)

Oh okay, I just ordered it off ebay for $15.