What is a AND how much for a right front outer CV Boot? then .. How much for full front pads and rotors?

Question

I own a 1997 Geo Prism Lsi, 1.6L. I was just told that I will need front brake pads & rotors. I was also informed about the immediate need to get a "right front Outer CV Boot." What is the CV boot?

How much do these individually cost? Would it be better to go get the parts from somewhere like "Advanced Auto Parts(AAP), etc" and then take it to repair shop. I was quoted like $550 with parts and labor from one location. I went on a few websites and saw the brakes and rotors for a combined price of $100-$150. No clue where to purchase a right outer CV boot. So I guess I will have to go to the dealer with that one. I will still ask the AAP shop. Thanks for any help.

Answer 1

the cv boot is the rubber, accordion like covering that protects the constant velocity joint from dirt and moisture.  if it tears, which it typically does, dirt will get into the cv joint and cause early failure.  when it fails, you will hear a clunk, clunk clunk when you turn.

unless you are doing the work yourself, let the shop supply the parts, if one of them fails they will have to replace including labor.

it you buy the parts, and a failure occurs, you will pay to re-install.

also, if you get or are given incompatable parts, you will have problems.

to install the boot, you will need to pull the axel, so it makes sense to replace when they do the rotors.

i have sen split boots which do not require axel removal.

Answer 2

well it is better to go ahead and replace you cv axle instead of just boot. it cost just as much on labor. and parts shouldn't be that much fot that car. and neither should labor.. most shops will replace your axle for about 150 including parts. and brakes usually cost about 120 plus cost of rotors.