How To Tell If Your Car's CV Axle Needs Repair Or Replacement
Your vehicle is going to have a CV axle, which actually has several jobs to ensure that your vehicle is driving smoothie. This part helps transfer power from the vehicle's engine to the wheels, allows the wheels to turn to the right and left, and even works with the suspension so that the wheels can move up and down. Unfortunately, this part can become damaged over time and require repair or replacement. Here are some signs that you should have your car checked out due to a damaged CV axle.
Odd Sounds
One of the first problems that you may notice is a clunking sound when driving. It usually makes the sound when accelerating, but it can also happen when braking hard as well. You are hearing this clunking sound because the inner joint on the CV axle is damaged because the engine is having problems turning the CV axle to do what you want the vehicle to do.
The other sound you may hear is an odd clicking noise, which is due to an outer CV joint being damaged on the axle. This often happens as you are turning your vehicle, rather than simply driving down a straight road. If you only hear clicking sounds when you are turning your vehicle left or right, this can indicate that there is a problem with the respective CV axle. Since it is odd that both CV axles will break at the same time, this can help pinpoint the problem to this part when you only hear clicking when turning in one direction.
Grease Leaks
A bad CV axle can also cause grease to leak out of the part. You'll likely notice this grease on the ground when moving your vehicle, but it can also cover the suspension parts or the inside part of the tires with grease as well. That's why you should follow up on any fluid leaks you see on the ground and find out if they are on the other parts as well.
Vibrations
If you do not fix your CV axle after noticing these initial signs, you'll eventually get to a point where your vehicle vibrates a lot while driving. There is a CV joint that has a significant amount of damage, which means that the CV axle is going to fail soon. Take your vehicle to a mechanic to help diagnose the problem and make the repair.
For more information on auto service, contact a professional near you.
