05 Jetta road wobble
 

I've got an early 2005 Jetta, (mark4) with 102,000 miles on it. About a week ago I noticed a little wobble in the car around 40 mph - any faster or slower and it goes away. Yesterday, at 70mph, it wobbled again, but much more pronounced, and with a slight audible noise. Now it wobbles at higher speeds, but only intermittently. It feels like a tire is flat or separating, but all 4 are new and in good balance. The shop I take it to told me, without looking, it was probably a tripod joint and I would likely need a new axle, $800. Does this sound remotely possible, or are these guys taking advantage or me. Any thoughts on what else it might be?

RE: 05 Jetta road wobble
 

Could be one of your joints that doesn't call for a whole new axle though. It could also be a wheel bearing, ball joint or a control arm link.