There is really no reason to completely replace the axle unless it is clicking/popping/grinding. Definitely check out a shop that can rebuild it for you. A lot of people don't do it anymore but there is usually someone that will do it for a small fee. Either way it seems to end up cheaper than rebuilding through Autozone or ordering OEM. If you want to rebuild just be prepared to wait several weeks to drive your car.

 

Understood and thank you. Was definitely operating under the assumption that since that boots been ripped and I didn’t know for how long, there was a good chance the axle would need replacing. Call that years of dealing with cars in the Northeast and rarely having an easy way out- you assume the worst on some things. Will add something to this once I get a resolution if it helps someone else out.