The CV joint, alongside the CV axle, drives the motors power, via the transmission, out to your vehicle’s wheels. In its infant days, CV axles were used mainly for Front-Wheel-Drive vehicles, as each front CV axle drove power to the wheels, and were intended to be able to dispatch torque at excessive angles, such as steering, jolt, etc. With the increase in acclaim of All-Wheel-Drive vehicles, and independent front and rear suspensions, CV axles (and joints) have worked their presence into SUVs, trucks, and AWD vehicles, both on the front and rear in a lot of cases.
A CV axle comprise two CV joints – an interior joint that attaches to the differential/ transmission, and an exterior joint that attaches to the wheel hubs. Each of these joints twist and turn at the same time continuing to offer continual torque to the wheels, Therefore the designation constant velocity joint. CV joints necessitate good, plentiful grease to retain lubrication, and for accomplishing this, each joint is encased in an industrial strength rubber boot that flexes along with the joint and looks a lot like a squeezebox.
Since CV joints live a kind of hard life, close near the roads, mud, water, salt, and debris, these boots typically split and fail, particularly along the ribs of the “squeezebox”. When this occurs, the grease that keeps the joints lubricated gushes out, and at some point, the joint fails.
How Long Can I Go with a Bad CV Axle?
It’s vital to remember that in the past, CV axles were usually re-built by the mechanic by the replacement of one of the two bad CV joints, installing a new boot, and reinstalling axle. After a while, the expense of new CV axles being massed manufactured became a better, more economical alternative than merely replacing the joint, as the axle was ready for installation, saving time and reducing expenses. The words, “I require a CV joint replacement” has remained steady, however in simple terms, the replacement of a CV joint actually means replacing the CV Axle, so advancing, going will be referred to as such.
CV Axle Replacement Expenses
Axle shaft replacements can be purchased for around $100-250 each, and labor is typically between 1 ½ to 3 hours to replace, increasing labor to about $150-400. The replacement of a CV axle on your own is an average job that does necessitate some specialty tools. If you’ve done a strut or brake job, or other under vehicle repairs like this, you can most likely address replacing a CV axle without problem.
What Are the Symptoms of a Failing CV Joint?
Prior to you worrying about the CV axle replacement expenses, pay attention to the indicators that you require a replacement in the first place. When your CV joint is going through some problems, there are a couple of signs that will put you on notice that you have an issue. Be aware of any of these, and they’ll be a perfect indicator that there’s something amiss with the CV joints in your vehicle.
1. Noises as you turn
Banging or clicking noises, particularly when you turn, are a tell-tale sign. As the joint wears, particularly devoid of grease, it is going to bang and click.
2. Cracks on the Boot
When carrying out an oil change, go over your CV boots thoroughly by opening up the ribs of the “squeezebox” and searching for cracks. An impaired boot is going sling grease anyplace it can, so look for indications of grease surrounding the joint. If you notice any, it’s only a question of time prior to the joint failing.
3. Wobbly Axle
A failing CV joint is going to wobble itself out of balance. This becomes very apparent if the wobbling occurs when you press on the accelerator, as the engine torque is going to cause the axle to wobble. When underneath the vehicle, you can typically discover which axle is creating the wobble by grasping the axle close to the joint on each side and pushing side to side, and up and down. If there’s any motion or movement in the axle, the axle is suspicious.
4. Bouncing or Vibrations
Bouncing is usually a step worse than vibration, and up to this point, the vehicle should not even be driven. If an axle fails completely and gets broken, it can turn into a spinning projectile and damage other parts in its path – struts, exhaust, fuel lines. The risk is not worth it.
How Long Can I Go with a Bad CV Axle?
Basically, it is risky to drive with a bad CV joint on an axle. If you find that your vehicle is experiencing any of the indicators of a bad CV joint, the best thing to do is get it to a mechanic sooner than later or replace the joint itself.
Don’t forget that after the CV boot gets compromised, it’s only a question of time before the axle breaks down. Not addressing the CV boot can result in disastrous break-down of the axle, which as mentioned above, is a part that is in spinning motion. When it breaks, it is going to continue at its best to try spinning, banging into anything it can. The best process of preventing CV joint / axle failure is to inspect them regularly. When you take your vehicle in for an oil change, ask the technician if they can quickly check the CV boots for issues. It’s usually not on a normal inspection, however, while they are underneath your vehicle, it takes less than 2 minutes to go over each one carefully.
University Auto Repair In Flagstaff, AZ
When you need your car fixed, you need it fixed fast, and you need it fixed the right way. At University Auto Repair, we strive to provide the best and highest quality auto repairs in the region. We live here too, and we are dedicated to the safety, security, and convenience of drivers and car owners throughout the Flagstaff area. Contact our team today!
