Is it dangerous to keep driving with torn boots?

MMJ21
Thu, 15 Sep 2011 01:33:07 +0000
Maintenance/Repairs

I drive a 1993 Isuzu Rodeo 4WD with 138K miles. My mechanic told me about a year ago that both front boots were torn and leaking. I knew the left front had been torn for some time prior. He said I needed to replace both sides (not just the boots, but the joints/axels?, sorry not a car guy). He said this took a lot of labor ("$1000 worth of labor") because it was a big job but he would charge $950 for both total cost. Being as this is an old car that I am getting close to unloading and only driving short distances, I haven’t done the repair and have been driving it. Recently, I have begun commuting on the highway for work, 75 mph etc. Is it dangerous to keep driving it with torn boots long-term? There is no clicking or any noise and the ride is smooth. Is that just something I have to worry about when using 4WD? Hardly ever use 4WD anymore.
Also, am I damaging the axels/joints by doing this and digging the truck into a deeper, more costly repair hole? Thanks for any info.

6 posts - 5 participants