Replacing these joints is a fairly straightforward job, though it takes some prior experience. To begin, you'll need a universal joint pressing tool. You can also take advantage of the loaner tools program at your local Advance Auto Parts store. Then follow these step-by-step instructions on how to change U joints.

How long should it take to replace u-joints?

On a typical labor book, a U-joint replacement is one or two labor hours, meaning that a $25 part can cost substantially more once someone else installs it for you and charges around $100/hour.

How much does it cost to change out u-joints?

The u-joint replacement cost is estimated between $225 and $300. Labor makes up about $100 to $125, while the parts should be between $125 and $200. However, these prices vary based on what make and model vehicle you drive.

What happens when u-joint fails?

When a u-joint fails, your vehicle breaks down and stops moving. It sounds simple, but it's actually not. There can be a lot of damage involved. The driveshaft assembly can come loose and even fall off.

Should I replace both u-joints?

Some Vehicles Have More Than Two U-Joints

There are typically two u-joints to replace on either end of the drive shaft. Some driveshafts have a double-cardan joint at the front, which contains two u-joints. So there are three U-joints to replace. It's best to replace them all at once.

How to Diagnose and Replace Universal Joints (ULTIMATE Guide)

What is a common cause of universal joint failure?

Heavy loads, shocks, vibrations due to misalignment, material wear can lead to loose play (backlash) within the bearings which can ultimately lead to joint failure.

What does a broken u-joint sound like?

Common signs of a faulty u-joint include a squeaking noise, clunking sound when shifting, vibrations in the car, and transmission fluid leaking.

How much does a shop charge for U-joints?

On average, the cost to replace a vehicle's u-joint is about $260; however, average costs can be up to $285 or as low as $235. This average estimate consists of about $120 in labor costs and about $140 for the cost of parts.

How do you know when you have a bad universal joint?

Signs of a Bad U-Joint

1. Clunking or Clanging. Your vehicle's U-joint may eventually wear at connecting points to the drive-shaft. ...
2. Vibrations. If your driveshaft is out of balance, it's often because of a defective universal joint. ...
3. Grinding or Chirping. ...
4. Loud Banging.

Can u joints cause death wobble?

The biggest issue with death wobble is that it can have so many more causes than say, a driveline vibration, which can typically be narrowed down to a bent driveline, improper angle, or worn u-joint.

What causes driveline vibration?

One of the most common cause of driveline vibration are worn U-joints or slip splines, out-of-balance components, yokes out of phase or misaligned angles, approaching critical speed range, and yoke ears that are not concentric with the splines.

Where are U-joints located?

U-joints are found on each of the ends of the rear drive shaft, whereas CV-joints are found on front wheel drive cars. Each allows the drive shaft to rotate as the differential moves in relation to the rest of drive train mounted on the chassis.

How many u-joints does a truck have?

A typical rear wheel drive vehicle has 2 or 3 u-joints. Some vehicles with a long wheel base, such as buses, have 3 or more u-joints. The more u-joints a vehicle has, the higher the chance a u-joint will fail.

Can u-joints cause vibration?

One of the most common signs of a bad driveshaft u-joint is a vibration that's felt throughout the vehicle. Usually, the sensation is the most noticeable at highway speeds.

Can u-joints squeak?

Squeaking is a less common noise heard in failing u-joints, but it sometimes happens. This is most common when a u-joint loses lubrication, and is subject to water intrusion. The bearings can rust in that situation, and you may hear squeaking at low speeds.

Why do driveshafts break?

Driveshaft failures are often the result of a worn or damaged U-joint. A drive shaft consists of a metal tube with a splined connection on each end…. one is connected to the transmission and the other is connected to the differential.

What would cause a driveshaft to go bad?

Lack of lubrication can cause damage to the driveshaft and its components. High-use driveshafts should be inspected regularly since they can wear prematurely due to excessive movement.

How long do driveshafts last?

While there is no set lifespan of a driveshaft, it typically can last about 75,000 miles. Keep in mind depending on the vehicle, and wear and tear you may get much less or much more.

How often should u-joints be greased?

The owners manual says to grease them every 100 hours, so if I'm putting 200-300 hrs a year on it that means the U-joints are only getting greased a couple of times a year if one follows the recommendation.