CV axles are found on approximately all vehicles on the road. The function of a CV axle is to convey power from the vehicle’s transmission and differential to the wheels of a vehicle, serving it move forward or backwards. A CV axle has stretchy greased joints that allow the axle to easily flex according to the road conditions.
The grease on a CV joint is enclosed by a boot (sometimes called axle boot) which defends the grease from dirt and debris. CV axles are subject to a lot of stress; this is since they transfer the power from the engine to the wheels of a car. This is why they ultimately wear out and need to be replaced. A CV axle can last for around 5 years or more, depending on the conditions of roads and your driving habits.
Turning the car’s steering wheel to its maximum causes the boot of axle to wear off ahead of time. Before a CV axle fails, it typically begins to show a few symptoms to alert the driver.
- Clicking Sound When Turning:This is one of the mainly widespread symptoms. An audible clicking noise can be heard when making sharp turns, when a CV axle is failing. The clicking noise tends to get louder as the axle gets faultier.
- Leaky Axle Boot:An additional symptom of a faulty CV axle is that the boot of the axle which protects the grease of the axle joint begins to leak. This grease embarks on to turn around as the axle turns and begins to spread all over, causing a mess. In worst cases, grease begins to touch the edges of the tire. A leaky axle boot finally lets dirt and debris into the axle joint, which in the end damages the axle.
- Vibrations While Driving:A bad or a faulty CV axle cause extreme vibrations when driving. If a CV joint or axle shaft is damaged, it affects the balance of a car when its wheels are rotating. The vibrations turn out to be more distinct, as the car increases in speed. Excessive vibrations get in the way with the car’s handling and ride quality. These vibrations also begin to affect a car’s suspension.
CV axles are a vital component of a car, as they are the connection between the engine and the wheels. This is why, it’s essential for us to get them altered once these symptoms begin to surface.
