Best axle quality for the price
 

I have a 2005 Mazda 6 with 129k miles that I believe both front axle CV joints are going bad on. When I turn hard left the right axle makes crackling sounds. The same happens when I turn right to the left axle. Seems a bit odd though that it does it worse now that the weather is below zero.

When searching for axles I see prices of around $50 from local parts stores.

Is there a specific brand anyone has used and had good luck with over the long run as far as quality goes?

I know this won't be the easiest thing to replace and I would rather spend a bit more money up front rather then doing the job twice.

Thanks in advance for any help!

Well, in doing some research I learned about Raxles but they do not make the axles for the Mazda 6.

Has anyone used GSP?

I have run into issues with buying new axles and having them not fit correctly, (not assembled right, missing abs tone ring etc) and the only one I could get that was correct was a rebuilt.

In general though I have had the best success with EMPI axles for new and plain old cardone reman axles for rebuilt.

Thank you for the reply. I called the dealer to get prices and they called Mazda because the part numbers no longer matched up. The dealer said Mazda is no longer making the axles! That seems a bit odd to me.

Another question, when you replaced the axles did you also replace the transmission support bushing? GSP that supplies axles under the name Tough Ones to Advance Auto says all their literature recommends changing the transmission mount at the same time to prevent clicking and leaks.

Thanks again