Outback Mirage Drive 180 Failure

Having issues with the Mirage 180 drives on my Hobie Outback kayaks. Have had a loud squeaking sound that has gotten worse as time as gone on. Sound started last year. We purchased our kayaks new in 2021. We have maintained the Mirage drives and always wash after use. They have only been used in fresh water. One drive failed this past weekend and we had to paddle home, while the second drive is making the same squeaking sound and I'm afraid it will fail soon. The part that seems to be failing is the middle area on the bottom of the spine assembly. This area has collapse upon itself and is making the drive unable to function.

Has anyone else had this issue? I am not very handy so repairing it myself if at all possible seems daunting. Thinking options are buying new Mirage drives (?) and hoping they don't fail too or driving 4 hours to find a repair shop for assistance. Either option leaves me without the use of the kayaks for the remainder of the season here in Michigan.

Appreciate any insight folks can provide. Is there a more reliable mirage drive than the 180's?

I was told the non-180 breakaway drive is one of the most reliable, and that the 180 is one of the least reliable.

Thanks - appreciate the insight. Was thinking I might need to purchase new drive(s), but was hoping not to go down this road. Have been told the non-180 drives will fit a 2020-21 Outback, but the fins are smaller causing the need for more effort to propel the kayak.

You can buy larger turbo fins like I did for the non180 kickup, but that option has gotten quite expensive.