Dodge Conquest Universal Joint, Drive/Propeller Shaft Costs
The average cost for a Dodge Conquest Universal Joint, Drive/Propeller Shaft Replacement is between $63 - $117. Get an instant quote with our AI repair estimator.
What is a Universal Joint, Drive/Propeller Shaft?
A universal joint, commonly referred to as a 'U-joint,' is a critical component of the drive and propeller shaft system found in rear-wheel drive vehicles, four-wheel drives, and trucks. It is a flexible pivot that allows the drive shaft to transmit power at varying angles to accommodate the motion of the vehicle's suspension. The universal joint is designed to ensure smooth rotation and to manage the power transfer from the engine to the wheels without interruption. By permitting slight changes in angle, the U-joint helps maintain connection and alignment between different segments of the drive train even as the vehicle encounters bumps or uneven terrain.
Symptoms of a Faulty Universal Joint
A faulty universal joint can lead to a variety of symptoms that may impact the driveability of your vehicle. One common sign is a noticeable clunking or banging noise when shifting from park to drive or reversing. This could indicate that the U-joint has worn and is allowing excessive movement. Another symptom is vibration that increases with speed, often felt through the floorboard or the steering wheel; this can happen if the U-joint loses its balance, causing the drive shaft to rotate unevenly. Additionally, if the U-joint fails completely, it could lead to the drive shaft detaching, making the vehicle inoperable and potentially causing significant damage to other drive train components. Regular maintenance inspections can help catch worn U-joints before they become a serious issue.
How Urgent is Universal Joint Replacement?
Replacing a faulty universal joint is a critical task that should be addressed promptly to avoid further damage to your vehicle's drive train. A worn or damaged U-joint not only affects the vehicle's handling and performance but also poses risks of complete failure, which can leave you stranded or cause accidents. If you notice symptoms such as noises or vibrations, it's advisable to have your vehicle inspected and repaired as soon as possible to prevent escalating repair costs and ensure your safety on the road.
How Much Does Universal Joint Replacement Cost?
The cost of replacing a universal joint typically ranges from $150 to $500, depending on the type of vehicle and the complexity of the replacement process. This cost includes both the price of the part and labor charges. The universal joint itself may cost between $20 and $80, while labor can account for the majority of the expense, especially if the drive shaft needs to be removed and re-installed. Prices may vary based on location and the specific make and model of the vehicle.
5 FAQs about Universal Joints
- What causes a universal joint to fail? Various factors can contribute to U-joint failure, such as lack of lubrication, excessive load, corrosion, or natural wear and tear over time. Regular maintenance, including greasing the joints and checking for signs of wear, can help extend their lifespan.
- Can I drive with a bad universal joint? While it’s possible to drive with a failing U-joint, it is not recommended. Doing so can cause severe vibrations, noise, and ultimately lead to drive shaft separation, which can be dangerous and result in significant vehicle damage.
- How often should universal joints be checked? It’s a good practice to inspect universal joints during regular maintenance services, such as when changing the oil or aligning the wheels. This will help identify any early signs of wear or damage.
- Are universal joint repairs covered by warranties? This depends on the vehicle’s warranty terms. Some powertrain warranties might cover U-joint repairs, especially if the failure occurs within the coverage period. It's important to check with your vehicle manufacturer or warranty provider.
- Is it possible to replace universal joints myself? While skilled DIYers with the right tools can replace U-joints, it requires a good understanding of vehicle mechanics and safety precautions. Improper installation can lead to further complications and should be handled by professionals if you’re uncertain.
Dev Output
1986 Dodge Conquest L4-2555cc 2.6L SOHC Turbo - Universal Joint, Drive/Propeller Shaft Costs
Parts: $92.00Labor: $82.00{ "partPrice": 92, "laborPrice": 82, "alldata_id": 9423, "alldata_vehicle_id": 9423, "title": "Universal Joint, Drive/Propeller Shaft", "parts": { "qualifiers": [ { "name": "Rear Axle", "qualifiers": [ { "name": "Without Limited Slip Differential", "qualifiers": [ { "name": "Universal Joints", "part": [ { "name": "Universal Joints, Universals & Rear Axle", "price": "0.00", "pricecode": "Contact Dealer for most current part and price information", "partnumber": "MB154261" } ] } ] }, { "name": "With Limited Slip Differential", "qualifiers": [ { "name": "Universal Joints", "part": [ { "name": "Universal Joints, Universals & Rear Axle", "price": "0.00", "pricecode": "Contact Dealer for most current part and price information", "partnumber": "MB154261" } ] } ] } ] } ] }, "labors": { "operations": [ { "operation": "Replace", "qualifiers": [ { "name": "Propeller Shaft Universal Joint, Renew", "labor": { "skill": "B", "standardtime": "1.1", "warrantytime": "0.0" }, "qualifiers": [] } ] } ] }, "year": 1986, "make": "Dodge", "model": "Conquest", "engine": "L4-2555cc 2.6L SOHC Turbo" }1985 Dodge Conquest L4-2555cc 2.6L SOHC Turbo - Universal Joint, Drive/Propeller Shaft Costs
Parts: $3.00Labor: $11.00{ "partPrice": 3, "laborPrice": 11, "alldata_id": 9426, "alldata_vehicle_id": 9426, "title": "Universal Joint, Drive/Propeller Shaft", "parts": { "qualifiers": [ { "name": "Rear Axle", "qualifiers": [ { "name": "Without Limited Slip Differential", "qualifiers": [ { "name": "Universal Joints", "part": [ { "name": "Universal Joints, Universals & Rear Axle", "price": "0.00", "pricecode": "Contact Dealer for most current part and price information", "partnumber": "MB154261" } ] } ] }, { "name": "With Limited Slip Differential", "qualifiers": [ { "name": "Universal Joints", "part": [ { "name": "Universal Joints, Universals & Rear Axle", "price": "0.00", "pricecode": "Contact Dealer for most current part and price information", "partnumber": "MB154261" } ] } ] } ] } ] }, "labors": { "operations": [ { "operation": "Replace", "qualifiers": [ { "name": "Propeller Shaft Universal Joint, Renew", "labor": { "skill": "B", "standardtime": "1.1", "warrantytime": "0.0" }, "qualifiers": [] } ] } ] }, "year": 1985, "make": "Dodge", "model": "Conquest", "engine": "L4-2555cc 2.6L SOHC Turbo" }1984 Dodge Conquest L4-2555cc 2.6L Turbo - Universal Joint, Drive/Propeller Shaft Costs
Parts: $48.00Labor: $28.00{ "partPrice": 48, "laborPrice": 28, "alldata_id": 8043, "alldata_vehicle_id": 8043, "title": "Universal Joint, Drive/Propeller Shaft", "parts": { "qualifiers": [ { "name": "With Limited Slip", "qualifiers": [ { "name": "Universal Joints", "part": [ { "name": "Universal Joints, Universals & Rear Axle", "price": "0.00", "pricecode": "Contact Dealer for most current part and price information", "partnumber": "MB154261" } ] } ] }, { "name": "Without Limited Slip", "qualifiers": [ { "name": "Universal Joints", "part": [ { "name": "Universal Joints, Universals & Rear Axle", "price": "0.00", "pricecode": "Contact Dealer for most current part and price information", "partnumber": "MB154261" } ] } ] } ] }, "labors": { "operations": [ { "operation": "Replace", "qualifiers": [ { "name": "With Limited Slip", "qualifiers": [ { "name": "Both", "labor": { "note": "Includes: R&R Driveshaft. ", "skill": "B", "standardtime": "1.3", "warrantytime": "0.0" }, "qualifiers": [] }, { "name": "Front", "labor": { "note": "Includes: R&R Driveshaft. ", "skill": "B", "standardtime": "0.9", "warrantytime": "0.0" }, "qualifiers": [] }, { "name": "Rear", "labor": { "note": "Includes: R&R Driveshaft. ", "skill": "B", "standardtime": "0.9", "warrantytime": "0.0" }, "qualifiers": [] } ] }, { "name": "Without Limited Slip", "qualifiers": [ { "name": "Both", "labor": { "note": "Includes: R&R Driveshaft. ", "skill": "B", "standardtime": "1.3", "warrantytime": "0.0" }, "qualifiers": [] }, { "name": "Front", "labor": { "note": "Includes: R&R Driveshaft. ", "skill": "B", "standardtime": "0.9", "warrantytime": "0.0" }, "qualifiers": [] }, { "name": "Rear", "labor": { "note": "Includes: R&R Driveshaft. ", "skill": "B", "standardtime": "0.9", "warrantytime": "0.0" }, "qualifiers": [] } ] } ] } ] }, "year": 1984, "make": "Dodge", "model": "Conquest", "engine": "L4-2555cc 2.6L Turbo" }