Any reason not to use an aftermarket axle assembly?

thebluedog · #1 08-25-2009, 12:58 AM

I have an outer cv boot that is torn. So, for $113 I can replace the entire axle assembly instead of just replacing the 1 boot. Any reason not to use an aftermarket part like the one listed on eBay? I typically would prefer to use OEM. Any experiences, thoughts, suggestions?

Thanks,
bd

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Bimmer Ese · #2 08-25-2009, 07:54 AM

Trust me, go OEM. I had went with one of those less expensive half shaft axles. After a couple thousand miles of driving, I would feel a mild vibration on acceleration. It ended up being the recently replaced half shaft. Replaced with one from the dealer and have been happy ever since.

Good luck,
Dan

CharlieHustleX5 · #3 08-26-2009, 02:28 AM

I just finished going through the same dilemna. Right front outer boot split open. I've heard too many bad experiences with aftermarket axles on BMW's. Their Lifetime Warranties sound tempting and give off the idea that they're so sure their product meets or exceeds OEM standards, they'll warranty the axle for life. Its just a way to lure you to buy their junk. If your joint is fine and the boot is just torn, replace the boot and take care of your cv axle.

If the axle clicks or is damaged, look for a remanufactured one from Atlantic Enterprises. They reman oem axles pretty decently I hear. Another option would be to purchase a used OEM one from a BMW dismantler.

Repoman · #4 08-26-2009, 08:33 PM

uh oh! i wish you guys would would have did this post a month ago when I bought my aftermarket shaft assembly. Mine cost me $87 and yes it is lifetime warrantied. I haven't put enough mileage on it yet to notice any issues with it, seems to be fine so far. But it is doubtful I would hear or feel anything over the noise of those toyo proxes in the rear with the negative camber.

The swap was pretty easy actually, it took me about 4 hours to complete the repair, including cigarrette breaks and trips to the fridge to crack open another cold one. I did invent a very quick and painless way of removing the axle shaft from the hub assembly and preserving the dust cap without using any puller or special BMW tool. It involves an 8 pound sledge and kickass punch . . . 5-7 shots and that thing jumps out of there like it was never supposed to be in there. I wasn't trying to preserve the old shaft but this technique did not damage it. I will use this technique again even if i'm just replacing a boot.

CharlieHustleX5 · #5 08-27-2009, 03:46 AM

I cant completely say that aftermarket shafts will give you problems due to not personally having tried them out on my X5. If I did have to purchase a set, I would give the guys at Raxles a call and see what they charge for a set that fits an X5. My only other suggestion would be the EMPI branded axles. I have a set on my Acura but I did have to get them balanced due to vibration at certain speeds. After the balancing, they worked like they were oem.

Your axles may serve you well and never cause you any problems. I wouldn't worry just yet.

BlackE32_SilverE53 · #6 08-27-2009, 05:33 AM

Hmmmmmm!!!! Something to think about.... Maybe this could explain some issues with my 740iL. I went purchased aftermarket parts for the front end and since it has never been as smooth as it use to be, nothing an ordinary driver would notice, just not the smooth solid BMW feel. I attributed it to having the car lowered but maybe not.......

cobra94563 · #7 08-27-2009, 11:46 AM

Not on my X, but I've used/installed about 4 aftermarket axle assemblies in the last 3 years (because of torn boots.). No problems to date. Many independent shops that have knowledgable mechanics will use aftermarket. If available, I try to get the NEW versus REBUILT aftermarket.

But I have to admit, I usually sell my cars before 100-120k, so even if I replace the axle at 70k, I don't expect to be in the car for a whole lot of miles more. But no problems I've seen.

01 BMW_X5 · #8 08-27-2009, 01:59 PM

20k miles on aftermarket GSP from Autozone - both sides.
Paid around $140 for both
No problems.

faz · #9 08-27-2009, 02:11 PM

I have always had better luck with OEM stuff than I have had with aftermarket stuff... so much so that if the difference is something that I can afford, I will go with the OEM.

LI_BIMMER · #10 08-27-2009, 02:36 PM

I used an aftermarket axle for about a year then I realized from a oil change that the inner and outer boots were ripped. I had spent $195 for it. My original axle outer boot had just ripped (grease was on the inside of the rim) but I was advised to replace the who axle because it would be easier.

The one year old aftermarket axle was also rusty on the metal shafts so I knew the quality wasn't that good.

Instead of getting another aftermarket axle for $80 (price drop

) to replace an aftermarket axle again, I bought an outer CV joint boot kit for $40 and replaced the boot on the OEM axle and put it back in. The mechanic didn't realized how easy the outer joint popped off to replace the boot. Since then I also replaced other side outer boot after noticing it had just ripped. I just make it a habit of checking the boots once every 6 weeks so I don't end up breaking my wallet.

I think long term while the OEM is expensive, you may spend as much or more by using replacement axles but I certainly understand that the low cost to getting it replaced vs. risking breaking down on the road somewhere or risk of safety.

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