Mitsubishi Eclipse GS Carrier Side Gears Costs

The average cost for a Mitsubishi Eclipse GS Carrier Side Gears Replacement is between $16 - $30. Get an instant quote with our AI repair estimator.

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What are Carrier Side Gears?

Carrier side gears, also known as differential side gears, are a crucial component in the differential assembly of a vehicle. They play a vital role in allowing the wheels to rotate at different speeds, which is essential when a vehicle turns. This differential action is necessary because when a vehicle turns, the outer wheels must cover more distance than the inner wheels. Carrier side gears, in conjunction with pinion gears, facilitate this motion by distributing power from the driveshaft to the wheels. They are typically housed inside the differential carrier, which is attached to the axle housing. Without these gears, effective vehicle handling and cornering would be significantly compromised.

Symptoms of Worn Carrier Side Gears

When carrier side gears begin to wear, the symptoms can interfere with the vehicle's performance. One common sign of worn carrier side gears is unusual noises emanating from the differential, such as clunking, grinding, or whining sounds particularly noticeable during turns. Difficulty in steering or an unusual amount of play in the steering wheel can also be indicative of issues within the differential, possibly stemming from the side gears. Furthermore, there may be a noticeable lag or hesitation in wheel rotation, affecting the smoothness of acceleration or deceleration. In more severe cases of wear, visible metal shavings in the differential fluid can be seen upon inspection, hinting at internal breakdowns of the gear components. These symptoms, if left unchecked, can lead to more severe damage to the differential assembly and potentially compromise the safety of the vehicle.

How urgent is Carrier Side Gear Replacement?

Replacing worn carrier side gears is moderately urgent. While immediate failure is not always imminent, allowing these problems to persist can lead to more severe damage within the differential, potentially affecting axle function as well. Over time, driving with faulty side gears can lead to compromised handling, which is a safety concern. Therefore, it is recommended to address any issues with the side gears promptly to avoid escalating repair costs and to ensure safe vehicle operation.

How much does Carrier Side Gear Replacement cost?

The cost of replacing carrier side gears can vary based on vehicle make and model, as well as labor rates in different regions. On average, the replacement cost can range from $200 to $600, with labor being a significant portion of the total expense due to the complexity of accessing and replacing the differential components. It’s advisable to seek quotes from reputable auto repair services to get an accurate estimate for your specific vehicle. Additionally, any extra damage that needs repair, discovered during service, may increase the overall cost.

5 FAQs about Carrier Side Gears

What causes carrier side gears to wear out?
Carrier side gears can wear out due to a lack of proper lubrication, excessive loads, or simply through normal wear and tear over time. Factors like aggressive driving, towing heavy loads, and infrequent maintenance can accelerate this wear.
Can I drive with bad carrier side gears?
Driving with bad carrier side gears is not recommended for extended periods. While it may not lead to immediate breakdown, it can cause further damage to the differential, increase repair costs, and pose safety risks due to affected vehicle handling.
How are carrier side gears inspected?
Carrier side gears can be inspected by removing the differential cover and inspecting the gears for wear or damage. Mechanics often look for signs of wear such as chipped or broken teeth and excessive backlash, as well as checking for metal shavings in the differential oil.
How often should the differential fluid be changed to prevent gear wear?
Changing the differential fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations, can help prevent gear wear by ensuring proper lubrication and cooling of the differential components.
Is replacing carrier side gears a DIY job?
Replacing carrier side gears is a complex task that typically requires specialized tools and knowledge of automotive differentials. It is best left to professional mechanics, as improper installation can lead to further damage and safety issues.

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1998 Mitsubishi Eclipse GS L4-1997cc 2.0L DOHC MFI - Carrier Side Gears Costs
Parts: $11.00
Labor: $12.00
{
  "partPrice": 11,
  "laborPrice": 12,
  "alldata_id": 32117,
  "alldata_vehicle_id": 32117,
  "title": "Carrier Side Gears",
  "parts": {
    "qualifiers": [
      {
        "name": "Rear Axle",
        "qualifiers": [
          {
            "name": "Gear Kit",
            "qualifiers": [
              {
                "name": "Without Limited Slip",
                "part": [
                  {
                    "name": "11 - Differential Gear Kit, Without Limited Slip",
                    "price": "559.52",
                    "pricecode": "",
                    "partnumber": "MB698621"
                  }
                ]
              }
            ]
          },
          {
            "name": "Side Gear",
            "qualifiers": [
              {
                "name": "With Limited Slip",
                "part": [
                  {
                    "name": "13 - Side Gear, With Limited Slip",
                    "price": "73.80",
                    "pricecode": "",
                    "partnumber": "MB664512"
                  }
                ]
              }
            ]
          }
        ]
      },
      {
        "name": "Shim",
        "qualifiers": [
          {
            "name": "Rear Axle",
            "qualifiers": [
              {
                "name": "With Limited Slip",
                "part": [
                  {
                    "name": "15 - Side Gear Shim, With Limited Slip",
                    "price": "14.03",
                    "pricecode": "",
                    "partnumber": "MB569528"
                  }
                ]
              }
            ]
          }
        ]
      }
    ]
  },
  "labors": {
    "operations": [
      {
        "note": "See Differential Case, Replace And Notes Or Combination",
        "operation": "Replace"
      }
    ]
  },
  "year": 1998,
  "make": "Mitsubishi",
  "model": "Eclipse GS",
  "engine": "L4-1997cc 2.0L DOHC MFI"
}