Are CV axle shafts left and right the same?

I ordered a CV axle shaft for my 2005 4X4, but it turned out that it looks like the right side, but not the left side. I need the left side. Are the left and right CV axle the same? Thanks.

 

Yes

 

Pics! What looks different?

 

I've always heard they are the same side to side.
If your axle you are replacing is OEM hang on to it. They are made very well and are worth repairing or keeping to use as a core from a rebuilder like CVJ axles.

 

I don't have the pic, but the old left axle has both of the bigger round ends, whereas the new one has 1 round end with the other has the cut-in.

 

So one of them has been replaced previously is suspect.

 

They should be the same length. The differential is offset a bit towards the driver's side, but on the passenger side of the differential there is the tube for the actuator/ ADD components.

 

The old one has the round bodies on both ends. The new one has a cut-in on one end. Are they compatible?

 

Is this an OEM Toyota axle? Aftermarket (Napa, Import Direct, etc.) probably won't look the same as OEM on the stubs. It will still fit and work though.



The stub won't be as flush against the differential as the OEM one, but the splines will go in far enough for the c-clip to lock it in.

 

The new one is aftermarket Cardone. It's remanufactured. As long as it works with issue, then I'm ok.

 

If you're really concerned, you can count the number of splines on the new axle and compare it to the old one. If you're anything like me though, you will lose count. Otherwise, I'm guessing you'll be fine.

 

I just put the new one in and drove for a few miles. So far so good. Thanks everyone.

 

Now, send your OEM unit out to be re-manufactured, and keep it for a spare.

 

How much is the typical cost to rebuild it? The new aftermarket is only $65-70.

 

It's not super cheap but theres a reason for the price difference, OEM axles are much stronger and last longer. They have different styles of rebuild for different types of setups. You just have to have an OEM axle to send in to get the core charge refund. Aftermarket is not accepted.

https://www.cvjreman.com/product-tag/9550/

 

I like their option for lift.