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Front axle boot leaking


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So I went today to investigate a soft "humming" noise while at highway speeds. The noise pitch follows wheel speed, not engine speed. So I started looking around underneath and found this. Could this be the source of my noise? I assume I have to replace the entire half-shaft to fix this...should I go ahead and replace the driver side also?

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The right side boot is more prone to failure because of heat from the turbo. You'll need to inspect the driver's side boot and evaluate its condition. Boots can be replaced if the rest of the axle is sound. Yours looks like a recent tear.

The humming is more likely a wheel bearing. If it increases with speed that's usually a bearing. If you get a banging noise when turning sharply at low speed, I'd say you'll need a new axle.

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My new thought about the old axle, save it, get a boot and replace it for when the $60. axle boot fails in a few years.

 

I'm on my second replacement left front axle in my 05, the right is still original.

305,600miles 5/2012 ej257 short block, 8/2011 installed VF52 turbo, @20.8psi, 280whp, 300ftlbs. (SOLD).  CHECK your oil, these cars use it.

 

Engine Build - Click Here

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Not sure if a more expensive suto parts store axle is a better option then the $70 ones and the $200+ OEM's.

 

I know on Civic's the $130 auto part store axles were better then the $50 free life time replacement ones.

305,600miles 5/2012 ej257 short block, 8/2011 installed VF52 turbo, @20.8psi, 280whp, 300ftlbs. (SOLD).  CHECK your oil, these cars use it.

 

Engine Build - Click Here

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  • 3 weeks later...
I can't speak to the Subaru specifically but in general the New aftermarket are always better than the Reman aftermarket. The reman units always seem to come back.

 

 

FWIW, my 100% new left front axle lasted only a few years. I piaid like $70 or 80 for it.

305,600miles 5/2012 ej257 short block, 8/2011 installed VF52 turbo, @20.8psi, 280whp, 300ftlbs. (SOLD).  CHECK your oil, these cars use it.

 

Engine Build - Click Here

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