How long does it take to replace a driveshaft? Driveshaft replacement times are subject to change based on your vehicle. If only one driveshaft needs to be replaced, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour. If your car has multiple driveshafts that need repair, the time (and average cost) can increase.

How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.

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What parts do I need for my driveshaft replacement and how much do those parts cost?

When completing a driveshaft replacement, you may need to replace the following parts:

Constant velocity joint (CV): Each of your vehicle’s wheels has 2 CV joints—an inner that connects the transmission to the CV axle or wheel drive axle and an outer that brings together the vehicle’s axle and wheel. The average price for a CV join is $100 to $300.

CV axle: A CV axle is an important part of your vehicle’s driveshaft as it moves the power from the differential and transmission to your car’s tires. Generally, CV axles can run from $300 to $1,000+ depending on your vehicle.

Rear axle: Your rear axle is the source that transmits power to your rear wheels. This part costs around $450 to $600.

End and tube yoke: The tube yoke and end yoke also contribute to the overall performance of your car. Tube yokes rotate the driveshaft and universal joint (u-joint), whereas end yokes help smooth the transfer of power in your vehicle. End yokes cost roughly between $60 and $300, while tube yokes are $70 to $600.

Driveshaft: Found most commonly on rear-wheel drive vehicles and four-wheel drive vehicles, driveshafts help to rotate your wheels via torque from your engine. To replace a driveshaft component on its own, the average cost is $100 to $500.

You can purchase driveshaft parts for your car from auto parts stores like AutoZone, NAPA Auto Parts, and Advance Auto Parts, as well as online retailers such as Amazon and eBay. Three brands we recommend for driveshaft parts are Cardone, Dorman, and ACDelco. However, the best brands and parts for your driveshaft replacement will vary based on your vehicle’s year, make, and model.

Keep in mind: Prices may vary depending on the damage done to your driveshaft and your car’s make and model.

Should I buy OEM or aftermarket products?

A damaged driveshaft needs to be replaced quickly and while they may cost more money, OEM products are the best bet. With OEM parts, you can be sure that the driveshaft will fit your specific car and know that it’s covered under warranty in case you face another driveshaft problem.

Where can I buy parts for my driveshaft replacement?

Most driveshaft replacement parts can be purchased through auto parts and auto repair shops, like AutoZone, NAPA Auto Parts, and Advance Auto Parts. Additionally, Amazon sells driveshaft assembly kits for a variety of vehicles, ranging from Jeep Wrangler to Dodge Challenger and Toyota RAV4.

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Where can I get my driveshaft replacement near me

Repairing a broken driveshaft is a big task, but finding the right mechanic can feel even bigger. That’s why Jerry's

GarageGuard™

uses real hourly rates to review and rank over 2,500 mechanics in the US—so you don’t have to.

Jerry's GarageGuard™ also supplies valuable information on diagnostic fees (and whether they’re included in your service pricing) and shows you real reviews about each service. It’s everything you need to stay on time and budget.

Take a look at some of our vetted shops below and download the app to see car repair cost quotes in your area.

174 Reviews

Yoo's Auto Service & Collision

189 W Duncannon Ave, Philadelphia, PA

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$100

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (215) 457-7777

177 Reviews

54th Street Auto Center

415 W 54th St, New York, NY

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$191

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (212) 265-3120

162 Reviews

Meineke Car Care Center 2913

651 E 120th Ave, Thornton, CO 80233, Thornton, IL

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$65

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (303) 502-9134

199 Reviews

Expressway Auto

2628 Mistletoe Dr, North Pole, AK

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$138.95

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (888) 659-0631

How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.

How will a mechanic replace my driveshaft?

To complete a driveshaft replacement, your mechanic will start by raising your vehicle off the ground using a platform and inspecting it. During the inspection, they will check for a damaged slip yoke, end yoke, or tube yoke, as well as your vehicle’s transmission. Then, they will most likely continue using these steps:

Remove flange mounting bolts: Attached to your rear differential are flange mounting bolts to help hold it in place. Your mechanic may mark their position for installment later before they are removed. At this point, the rear end of the driveshaft will loosen, so they will be careful to ensure it doesn’t fall.

Place drain pan: After the flange mounting bolts are taken out, your mechanic will place a drain pan under your transmission to catch any potential fluid that may leak out when the driveshaft is removed.

Knock driveshaft loose: Next, your mechanic will use a dead blow hammer to knock the driveshaft loose from the differential.

Remove center support bearing bolts: Some vehicles have bolts to hold the rear of the front driveshaft to the center support bearing. If your vehicle has these, your mechanic will remove them to take the driveshaft out.

Remove driveshaft and replace: Finally, your old driveshaft is removed from the transmission and replaced with a new driveshaft using these steps in reverse order.

Top off differential oil and transmission fluid: If any transmission fluid or differential oil leaked during the process, your mechanic will top these up and then lower the vehicle.

Algin and test: Lastly, your mechanic will align all parts and test drive the vehicle to ensure the drivetrain is operating effectively.

What happens if I don’t replace my driveshaft?

Your driveshaft is a valuable component of your vehicle’s drivetrain. Neglecting your drivetrain can make it difficult to control your car. Other results of a faulty driveshaft include:

Unwanted pressure on other car parts

Transmission failure

Stiff tires due to loss of power

On some all-wheel drive vehicles, power loss to one axle can cause stress on the center differential, which can also lead to premature wear and tear on the underside of your car or damage to brake cables, fuel lines, and more.

What is a driveshaft?

The driveshaft (sometimes known as the propeller shaft) is a tube-shaped shaft that delivers torque from your transmission to your differential. The differential then uses the torque to help move your wheels.

Depending on your vehicle’s make and model, it may have a differently designed driveshaft. For example, front-engine rear-wheel drive cars have longer driveshafts to connect the rear axle to the transmission.

When should I replace the driveshaft on my car?

Faulty driveshafts provide various signs and symptoms to let you know it’s time for a repair. Some common symptoms of a driveshaft replacement include:

Clunking sounds: Is there a loud knock or clunk coming from under your vehicle? That typically indicates that a u-joint is worn and needs to be replaced—or it could be the sign that your driveshaft needs to be examined.

Vibrations: Another symptom of a failing driveshaft is vibration. If the vibrating is intense and comes from under the vehicle, the driveshaft bushings or u-joint are experiencing premature wear.

Shuddering while accelerating: Loose u-joints and worn center bearings in the driveshaft can cause your vehicle to shudder upon acceleration. You may also experience odd sounds at this time.

Trouble turning: If your driveshaft is faltering, you may have trouble turning as not enough power is being transmitted to your wheels.

If any of these symptoms occur, it’s recommended you pull to the side and inspect your vehicle before calling a mechanic. Continued driving may cause injury to yourself or others.

How often should a driveshaft be replaced?

Your car’s driveshaft can last the lifetime of your vehicle—but it’s always best to check it every 75,000 miles. If you’ve modified the height of your driveshaft, you’re more prone to experience wear and tear and you may have to inspect and change it sooner.

Pro Tip One way to extend the lifespan of your driveshaft is to keep your u-joints well lubricated.

Can I replace the driveshaft myself?

With the proper mechanical and DIY knowledge, you can replace your driveshaft. That said, if you don’t have a strong understanding of vehicle parts and are unsure of your mechanical talents, it’s best to take your vehicle to a professional.

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FAQs

What should you inspect on a driveshaft?

When inspecting your driveshaft, you should check for loose end yokes, loose radials, bent shaft tubing, or missing plugs in the slip yoke. Each of these components is important to your driveshaft’s performance so it’s important that they are all in working order.

If you notice one of the following listed above, contact a mechanic as soon as possible as it could be part of a larger problem.

Why would a driveshaft fail?

Driveshafts can fail for several reasons. The most common, however, are worn or insufficiently lubricated u-joints, poor bearings, or loose shafts. Driveshafts can experience usual wear and tear but are more likely to fail due to premature wear and tear from other parts or modifications.

Does a driveshaft have to be aligned?

Yes, the yokes on a driveshaft need to be aligned for it to operate properly. If a driveshaft isn’t aligned, it can result in vibrations that can further damage it or destroy the engine.

Meet Our Experts

John Davis

Car Expert

Certified mechanic with 10+ years of experience

John Davis is an expert automotive writer and former automotive mechanic. John's work spans multiple categories, and he relishes the opportunity to research a new subject and expand his area of expertise and industry knowledge. To date, John has written more than 200 articles covering car maintenance and care, car advice, how-to guides, and more.

Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team, John worked as a mechanic and freelance writer, creating content for clients including HotCars and SetPower.

Jessica Barrett

Car Expert

Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit.

Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.

Kathleen Flear

Car Expert

Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who heads up Jerry’s editorial team as director of content. Kathleen empowers drivers to make smart car ownership decisions through best-in-class articles on insurance, loans, and maintenance. Prior to joining Jerry in 2021, Kathleen served as managing editor for a team of SEO content marketing professionals at Article-Writing.co and worked as a freelance writer and editor for a range of digital publications, including Chicago Literati magazine and Golden Words. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Queen’s University, and a master’s degree in creative writing and fiction from Sierra Nevada University.

*The price information provided on our car repair webpages is intended for general informational purposes only. Actual prices for car repair services may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to the make and model of your vehicle, the extent of repair required, and the prevailing market conditions. All prices for real repair shops are estimations based on our research only. Therefore, the prices listed on our webpages should not be considered as final quotes or binding offers.