How to Tell if Your CV Axle Needs Replacement

Your car is a collection of hundreds of moving pieces, and they all need to work in unison for the vehicle to operate smoothly. One of the most important components to your drive train is the CV axle, which helps turn the transmission’s output into forward motion for the wheels. Since this part acts as the primary linkage between the engine and each wheel, it understandably gets subjected to a lot of stress. Even with the most vigilant maintenance schedule, it’s not uncommon for this vital component to wear out.

When your vehicle needs axle replacement, you should be able to recognize a few key symptoms both when you’re driving and when the car is parked. If you experience excessive vibrations or loud clicking while you’re navigating your route, it’s likely that the part is near the end of its service life. Should either of these conditions manifest during a drive, take a look at the wheels the next time you’re parked. If you notice a layer of grease on the tire or underside of the automobile, that’s an indication of a torn protective boot, which can accelerate wear and tear by letting dirt and road debris into the assembly.