What does a worn CV axle look like?
One of the most common and most noticeable symptoms of a bad or failing CV axle shaft assembly is an audible clicking noise when turning. When CV axles become excessively worn, the joints will become loose and click when turning.
How can you tell if your CV axle is bad?
When joints wear out, the symptoms will be obvious. If there’s an issue with the inner joint, you’ll experience vibration and noise during straight line acceleration. If you’re experiencing a loud popping or clicking sound when sharply turning, it’s likely an outer joint issue with the CV axle.
What is a CV axle in a car?
What is a CV axle? It’s a shaft with constant-velocity (CV) joints that transfers the rotating torque to one of the drive wheels in a car. It might also be called a half shaft or drive shaft. A typical front-wheel drive car has two CV axles (CV shafts), one at each front wheel.
What should I do if my CV shaft is bad?
CV axles serve as the final link between the engine and the wheels. They serve the important function of transferring the torque from the drivetrain to the vehicle’s wheels in order to move the vehicle. If you suspect that one or more of your CV axle shafts may be having a problem, contact a technician to inspect the vehicle.
Can a cracked CV boot cause axle failure?
A torn or cracked CV boot will leak grease that ends up tossed around while the axle turns. A leaky boot will eventually lead to CV joint failure, as dirt and debris will get into the boot and damage the joint.
What causes a CV axle to go bad?
CV axles have inner and outer joints with a “boot” on each end. CV axle failures are usually caused by a broken or leaking boot, which is often followed by failing bearings in a joint. When joints wear out, the symptoms will be obvious.
What is the CV boot on an axle?
A CV axle features a protective casing or rubber boot called the CV boot. The CV boot is supposed to ward off debris like dust and dirt and ensure there is sufficient grease circulating to keep the CV axle well lubricated.
When do you need a CV axle replacement?
Driving on an axle with a torn boot for too long will wear out the joint, making a CV axle replacement necessary. Bad CV axle symptoms include loud clicking when turning or accelerating and harsh vibration when driving.
How to get an accurate reading of the CV axle?
To get an accurate reading of the CV axle condition, find a smooth flat surface (such as an empty parking lot) and turn the steering wheel all the way in one direction and drive in a circle. Then turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction and drive in a circle.