5 Symptoms of a Bad CV Joint
Notice strange noises and vibrations while driving ? Do you feel like something is off, but you can’t quite put your finger on it? The culprit could be a bad CV joint. CV joints last a long time, but not forever. Keep reading to learn how to spot the signs of a bad CV joint, what causes failure, and how much it will cost to fix.
What Is a CV Joint?
A CV joint, or constant velocity joint, is an important part of your vehicle’s drivetrain. It allows the transmission of power from the engine to the wheels while accommodating the up-and-down movement of your car’s suspension system. In simpler terms, it helps your car drive smoothly even when the road surface isn’t perfect.
As your vehicle navigates varying terrain, the CV joint adapts to keep the power transmission consistent and smooth. These joints are typically found in the CV axle, which connects your vehicle’s transmission to the wheel hubs.
Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles rely on CV joints to function properly. As for rear-wheel drive vehicles that have separate rear suspensions, the half-shafts’ ends of the rear axle will have CV joints in them.
There are two types of CV joints: inner and outer. The inner joint connects the CV axle to the transmission, while the outer joint connects the CV axle to the wheel hub.
Bad CV Joint Symptoms
There are certain warning signs to look out for when it comes to CV joint failure. Below are the 5 most common symptoms of a bad CV joint:
#1 – Tire Edge Grease
When you spot grease along the edge of your tire, particular from a tear or tiny crack, it could be a sign you could have a bad CV joint. A significantly damaged CV joint means darker colored grease might be visible on the rim and wheel’s interior.
#2 – Turning Causes Loud Noises
When you turn the steering wheel and hear noises such as a clicking sound or popping sound, it’s very likely you have a broken or worn CV joint. You can test this by doing the following:
1. Shift the gear into reverse
2. Turn the wheel all the way to one side,
3. Step on the gas pedal.
You will be going in a circle, so make sure the area around you is clear. As you move backward in a circle, the popping sounds should get louder if you have a bad CV joint. You’ll either have to replace the joint or the entire shaft assembly.
#3 – Bouncy Driving
You likely have a faulty CV joint if you’re driving on a flat paved road and your vehicle is still bouncing around. You can verify this by going to an auto shop that repairs transmissions.
#4 – Vibrations
A worn or damaged CV joint will vibrate while you’re driving. CV joints in this condition will not be able to balance properly during rotation. The more you accelerate, the more intense the vibrations will become.
When vibrations become too excessive, the vehicle will become more difficult to control and your overall riding experience will be impacted. This means the drive will become less comfortable and less safe for everyone in the car. The only solution here is to replace the CV joint.
#5 – Movement Causes Knocking Sounds
A CV joint that has become worn out from being used too much will cause a knocking or clunking sound. This noise can come from the inner joint on a front-wheel drive car. For rear-wheel drive, it can come from either the outer or inner joints. Knocking sounds can also come from the differential gears.
To perform a self-diagnosis of the joint problem, put the vehicle in reverse and accelerate, then decelerate. Alternate back and forth between acceleration and deceleration and listen for louder knocking sounds. This is proof of a bad CV joint.
Potential Causes of Faulty CV Joint
Wear and Tear
As with any part of your vehicle, CV joints are subject to wear and tear over time. This natural process can eventually lead to the problems described above, which can be more pronounced in FWD vehicles. While most people don’t hold on to a vehicle long enough for the CV joint to fail, it can happen, especially when buying a used vehicle.
Accidents and Impacts
Sometimes, accidents or severe impacts can damage your CV joint. Even small ruts and potholes will over time lead to a damaged or leaking CV joint.
Lack of Lubrication
Like most components in your engine or suspension, proper lubrication is critical for CV joints to function as they should. Regular maintenance checks, including inspecting the CV joint’s protective boot for any leaks, can help you keep the joint in good working order and prolong its lifespan.