I am looking at purchasing (cheaply) a 1997 Subaru Impreza, it needs the front left axle replaced which I would be paying a garage to pick car up, transport to workshop and repair. Is this something that may be worth doing or is it an indicator of other issues?
toyboy3,
Feb 11, 1:05pm
If it was that easy wouldn't the current owner do it and get a better price
tamarillo,
Feb 11, 1:09pm
Maybe not, have found plenty bargains where owner couldn't be bothered and just moved on. Not always, but some are genuine.
tamarillo,
Feb 11, 1:10pm
Have you got old sub specialist around yours? Be best place and they will know what it takes best and have best source of parts. Lots of sub workshops around NZ.
tomthumb933,
Feb 11, 1:11pm
I have spoken to the garage and they are prepared to pick up and repair, so as far as being that easy yes. I just don't know if it is that sensible
tomthumb933,
Feb 11, 1:13pm
Not that I am aware of, we only have a couple of workshops here
mechnificent,
Feb 11, 1:13pm
Replacing an axle is simple. You don't need to do the wheel bearings or remove the transmission or anything like that. Axle nut off, wheel off, lower balljoint undone, pin knocked out of inner cv joint and out it comes. Then you can replace either the inner or the outer cv joint, though the inner ones are expensive and I'd recommend buying a second hand entire axle from strong brothers if that is what needs doing.
As has been said, are you sure that's all that is wrong with the car ? It's an old scam to claim "it just needs a tune up then it will start".
mechnificent,
Feb 11, 1:15pm
As for trucking it. for the sake of an hour long job I'd recommend finding someone to do it there. if the owner is agreeable.
tomthumb933,
Feb 11, 1:42pm
Thank you very much mechnificent. Unfortunately doing it there is not an option as it is on the side of the road where it packed up. I am feeling wary of "is that all that is wrong with it" question and am aware that is a risk especially given it cant be test driven. Maybe I should walk away.
tomthumb933,
Feb 11, 1:44pm
I guess the big question I am asking myself is what causes the axle to need replacing? If anyone can help with that I would be greatful :-)
mechnificent,
Feb 11, 1:52pm
The most likely thing will be that the outer cv joint will have failed, as the result of not getting it done in a timely manner. They normally give plenty of warning by clicking when turning. The warning signs can last for months or years. If it's failed, they probably didn't take good care of the car.
Second hand axles are about $100 from strong who are very good. they will send you the right part and it will be in good serviceable condition. If you fit a second hand axle, the front left will need raising but it isn't really essential to take the wheel off. it just makes it easier. Fitting a whole axle only takes a half hour.
mechnificent,
Feb 11, 1:56pm
If you are ringing strong bros. they will ask if it has ABS or not, and they will want the rego number.
mechnificent,
Feb 11, 2:00pm
New parts are about $100 for an outer cv. $250 for an inner cv. Or repco might be able to sell you an entire axle with both cvs for about $450. You should check those prices though with repco.
tomthumb933,
Jun 24, 11:44pm
Great, thank you for your help. I have some questions to ask and thinking to do :-)
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