Technicians know that Constant velocity (CV) axles are critical components of a vehicle's drivetrain, responsible for transferring power from the transmission to the wheels. Due to their constant rotation and flexibility to accommodate different road conditions, CV axles are prone to wear and tear, eventually leading to failure.
Let us discuss the symptoms of CV axle failure, how to diagnose the issue, and why it is better to replace the entire axle assembly instead of just one axle joint.
Symptoms of CV Axle Failure
When a CV axle starts to fail, it usually exhibits several warning signs. Identifying these symptoms early on can help prevent further damage to your vehicle and ensure your safety on the road. Some common symptoms of CV axle failure include:
Clicking Sound When Turning
The most common symptom of a bad CV axle is a clicking noise when turning, especially during sharp turns at lower speeds. This usually indicates an issue with the outer CV joint, with the sound being the loudest on the joint opposite the turning direction.
Clunking Sound on Acceleration or Deceleration
When the inner CV joint begins to fail, you may experience a clunking sound when accelerating or quickly letting off the throttle to prepare for braking.
Grease Leakage
Both inner and outer CV joints are protected by rubber boots containing grease. If the boot develops a tear or crack, grease may leak out, leading to grease on the inside of the tire, steering and suspension components, and the ground.
Vibration While Driving
If the shaft is bent or damaged, you may experience a vibration while driving. This will become more apparent as you increase speed.
Diagnosing CV Axle Failure
Before jumping to conclusions and replacing your CV axle, it's crucial to diagnose the issue correctly. Many different problems can mimic a bad CV axle, and figuring out which joint is causing problems can be challenging. Here are a few tips to help you diagnose a bad CV axle:
Perform a Visual Inspection
Start by performing a visual inspection of the CV axle. If the CV joint's boot is torn and leaking grease, there's a good chance that the joint is also faulty or will be soon. Technicians recommend replacing the entire axle assembly in such cases.
Perform a Test Drive
If the boots and joints appear to be in good condition, you'll want to test drive the vehicle in a parking lot to check for any unusual noises or vibrations. To check for a worn outer CV joint, put the car in reverse, turn the steering wheel all the way to one side, and drive backward in a circle. Repeat the process by turning the steering wheel in the other direction. If you hear a pronounced clicking or snapping noise, an outer CV joint may be worn out.
To check for a worn inner CV joint, drive the vehicle in reverse while accelerating and decelerating. If you hear a pronounced clunking noise, an inner joint may be worn out.
In some instances, you may be able to check the inner joint for play by holding it while turning the wheel by hand (after safely raising and supporting the vehicle). If this doesn't provide a definitive answer, you'll want to rule out other problems (e.g., worn transaxle mounts) before condemning the CV joints.
Why Replace the Entire Axle Assembly Instead of Just One Axle Joint?
These days, it's common practice to replace the entire CV axle assembly instead of repairing or replacing a single faulty CV joint. There are several reasons for this:
Cost-effectiveness
In most cases, it's more cost-effective to replace the entire CV axle assembly rather than attempting a repair. While the cost of parts, labor time, and the number of CV axles needing replacement can vary drastically, replacing the entire assembly typically falls within the range of $300 to $700 when done professionally.
Time and Labor Savings
Replacing the entire CV axle assembly can save both time and labor. Repairing a single CV joint may require disassembly, cleaning, and re-greasing, whereas replacing the entire assembly is often a simpler and more straightforward process.
Improved Longevity
By replacing the entire CV axle assembly, you ensure that all components are new and in optimal condition. This can result in improved performance and longevity of the axle assembly, reducing the likelihood of future issues.
Compatibility and Quality
When replacing a single CV joint, compatibility and quality can be a concern. Mixing and matching components from different manufacturers may lead to premature failure or other issues. By replacing the entire assembly, you can ensure that all parts are of equal quality and designed to work together.
Constant velocity axle failure is a common issue that can cause various symptoms, including clicking or clunking noises, grease leakage, and vibrations while driving. To ensure your vehicle's safety and performance, it's essential to diagnose the issue accurately and consider replacing the entire axle assembly instead of just one axle joint. When choosing a replacement CV axle, it's essential to select a high-quality part, such as GSP with a proven track record. By doing so, you can save time, labor, and your customers money while ensuring their vehicle operates at its best.
