Bubba The Great 0 Report post Posted November 15 I recently bought an USA market 2005 Volvo V50. My first Volvo and love the little guy. At 165,000 the right side axle is is toast and have a new OEM ready to install, However, Upon inspection the boot/s on the Drivers side is torn and I don't know how long it has been that way. My Volvo mechanic buddy says he has rarely ever seen a drivers side go bad. All that said would it be OK to buy a non oem axle? Rock Auto has one for 50$ bucks (SURTRACK/TRAKMOTIVE) that would be almost cheaper and easier than rebuilding the oem that might be ruined anyway. Any advice will be appreciated or a non oem brand that is good. Thanks Bubba Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
boxpin 1,045 Report post Posted November 15 Check out Napa. They have pretty good new ones and of the 2 rebuilt I bought from there have been OEM axles. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
erikv11 225 Report post Posted November 17 On the older Volvos, the non-OEM axles are notorious for being junk almost uniformly. Even though they have worked out for a few people. Guess why it's only $50 bucks? Getting one from a scrapyard is probably the most cost efficient way to go. So although boxpin's source may be better, personally I wouldn't mess with it. Driver's side and passenger side will show no difference in terms of longevity. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
