Should the CV joint cage be replaced individually or in pairs?

[LeCarlos]

CV joint cages do not need to be replaced together; you can replace only the side that is faulty. Here is some information about CV joint cages: 1. The CV joint cage, also known as the 'constant velocity joint,' is a crucial component in a car's drivetrain system. Its function is to transmit the engine's power from the transmission to the drive wheels, enabling the car to drive at high speeds. 2. There are many types of constant velocity joints used in cars, with the most common being the ball-type CV joint and the tripod-type CV joint. These mainly consist of components such as the sliding sleeve, tripod, drive shaft, inner race, cage, and outer race.

[RebeccaFitz]

I've been driving for over 20 years and have encountered CV joint issues several times. The CV joint, also known as the universal joint, is located on the driveshaft and is used to transmit power. Generally, it's recommended to replace them in pairs because the vehicle's drive system is balanced. If one side is worn out, the other side may have already aged as well. Replacing just one might save some money upfront, with parts and labor costing a few hundred dollars less, but soon enough the other side might fail, requiring another repair. In the long run, you end up wasting more time and fuel, which is even more costly. Not to mention, replacing just one can lead to imbalance, causing severe vibrations while driving and affecting handling. So, based on experience, it's more hassle-free to replace them in pairs. When getting repairs at a reputable shop, technicians usually inspect the wear on both sides before recommending whether to replace one or both. Don't risk safety hazards just to save a little money temporarily.

[OJoshua]

I just had my car repaired last month due to a faulty CV joint. The mechanic told me that replacing one would cost 2,000 yuan, while replacing a pair would be 3,800 yuan. I hesitated at first. He explained that although the price difference seems significant, CV joints come in pairs, and both sides of the axle bear equal load. If one fails, the other is likely worn as well. Replacing just one side might save you little money in the short term, but it could lead to another failure soon, doubling your repair costs and downtime. I took his advice and replaced both. Now the car runs much smoother without any clicking noises. This experience taught me to consider car components from a long-term perspective rather than focusing solely on immediate costs. Regular inspections can also prevent potential issues.

[JakeLee]

As a novice driver, I heard for the first time that the CV joint needs replacement. After checking online, I found that it's generally recommended to replace them in pairs to maintain drivetrain balance. However, this isn't absolute - if you're on a tight budget or the other side shows minimal wear, you can just replace the damaged one. The key is to have a reliable mechanic inspect it to ensure no issues. My advice is to first assess your vehicle's condition properly - don't blindly try to save money and end up with strange noises or vibrations.

[LeCharles]

From an economic perspective, replacing CV joints requires careful calculation. Replacing a single part is cheaper by a few hundred, with lower labor costs; replacing a pair is more expensive but offers greater durability and reliability. In the long run, replacing both can avoid repeated repair costs and breakdown expenses. If it fails halfway, calling a tow truck would cost even more. It's crucial to consider driving frequency and quality requirements.