Do you know when to replace the CV joint in your car? Read on to find out.
The purpose of CV, or close velocity joints, is to quickly transfer the power from the transmission to the wheels. When there isn’t enough friction, power tends to transmit at a constant rotation speed. Simply put, the power is transmitted to the wheels, regardless of the angle of your steering.
You will find a CV joint, whether you have a front-wheel drive vehicle or an all-wheel drive vehicle. In rear-wheel drive vehicles, the CV joints will be found at the ends of the rear axle.
Over time, the CV joint wears out. In the upcoming paragraphs, we will talk about common signs that indicate that your CV joint needs replacement.
So, let’s begin.
Sign # 1: Greasy Edges
Sometimes, you notice grease towards the edges of your tires. The source of this grease could be a small crack or a tear. Greasy edges allude to a bad CV joint that needs replacement. A poor CV joint may result in dark-colored grease, which is visible on the edges as well as the interior of your wheel.
Sign # 2: Loud Noises
Do you hear something click or pop whenever you turn the steering? Such noises could signify a problem with the existing CV joint. If you here such noises, here is what you need to do.
- Step on your gas pedal
- Shift the gear into reverse
- Turn the wheel completely on one side
If the sounds get louder as you move back, you definitely need to change the CV joint. You can even replace the entire shaft assembly.
Sign # 3: Bumpy Driving
If you are driving on a flat track, and the car is bouncing, there is something terribly wrong with your CV joint. If such a thing happens repeatedly, drive straight to the nearest auto repair shop in Berkeley, CA.
Sign # 4: Vibrations
A damaged CV joint tends to vibrate as you drive your car. Such joints are poor at balancing when the car is rotating. As you accelerate, the vibrations will increase. With an increase in vibrations, the vehicle will be more and more difficult to control, which will impact the entire riding experience. The ride will become less pleasurable and more dangerous for the person driving as well as other people on the road.
Sign # 5: Knocking Sounds
A CV joint that has been overused tends to produce a knocking sound. In a front wheel drive vehicle, such a sound will come from the inner joint. In the case of a rear-wheel drive, such sounds come from the outer joints.
These were some of the most common signs that your CV Joint needs replacement. For more information, reach out to a professional auto repair company in Berkeley, CA.
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