I was at the mechanics getting an oil change on my 1999 Volvo xc awd (185,000 miles).

He shows me the cv axle on passenger side. The boot is torn and you can see in. He says the axle needs to be replaced...that the grease has oozed out and there is now friction in the bearings.

Says it will cost $335 to replace.

My question is "Does the axle really need replacing or can the boot be replaced for less cost?"

I'm supposed to drive this car to Chicago in a few days (1,350 miles)...do I really need to do this before driving?

He also says I need new inner tie rods and ball joints...another $750

 

does the driveshaft make any noise or vibration during driving especially on full turn (left & right)?? if the boot is torn should make immediate repair to prevent more damage to the cv join. but if there is noises already then it means the join already damage & require new one. I would definitely do all the driveably repair before I go on a long trip. is ur life not to mention if u hit someone else cars on the hwy

 

$335 to replace? Not sure how much the axle is for your XC but on my '99 S80 it was $55 and easy to replace. Didn't even have to remove the brake caliper.
$750 to do tie rods and ball joints? I'd shop around for a second opinion.