A quick guide from your neighborhood experts at Arvada Square Auto
Your vehicle’s axles are one of those behind-the-scenes components that rarely get any attention until something goes wrong. But they’re essential to your car’s operation, and when an axle goes bad, you’ll know it. Understanding the function of your axles and knowing what symptoms to watch for can save you from expensive breakdowns and unsafe driving conditions.
What Does an Axle Do?
In simple terms, the axle is a central shaft that connects your vehicle’s wheels and supports the weight of your car. It transfers power from the transmission or differential to the wheels, allowing them to turn and propel the car forward (or backward). Most vehicles have two axles, one for the front wheels and one for the rear, but all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive systems can have more.
Modern vehicles typically use CV (constant velocity) axles, especially in front-wheel drive cars. These axles have joints at both ends that allow flexibility and smooth power delivery, even when turning or going over bumps. Oftentimes, these boots can tear, causing grease to leak out. It’s important to repair the boot or replace the axle to prevent unsafe driving conditions once this type of damage is observed.
Common Symptoms of a Bad Axle
When an axle begins to fail, it often shows warning signs before completely breaking. Here are some of the most common symptoms:
1. Clicking or Popping Sounds When Turning
One of the first and most common signs of a failing CV axle is a clicking or popping noise when making sharp turns. This often means the CV joint is worn and may eventually fail if not addressed. If you hear these sounds, the team at Arvada Square Auto can perform a thorough inspection and catch the issue early. An inspection is best done when a vehicle is lifted on a rack.
2. Grease on the Inside of Your Wheels
A torn CV boot (the rubber cover that protects the CV joint) can leak grease. If you notice dark grease around the edge of your wheel or under the vehicle near the tires, it’s a sign the boot is damaged, and the axle is at risk of contamination and wear. Bring your car to Arvada Square Auto, we’ll get your axle back in shape before it gets worse.
3. Vibrations While Driving
Excessive vibration while driving, especially if it gets worse during acceleration, can indicate a bent or damaged axle. While some vibration can also point to tire or alignment issues, a bad axle will cause a more intense and constant shake. Our technicians can pinpoint the cause and get your car driving smoothly again.
4. Clunking Sounds During Acceleration or Braking
A loud clunk or “thunk” when shifting into gear, accelerating, or decelerating can be a sign of a bad axle or loose CV joint. Don’t ignore these sounds, our experienced team at Arvada Square Auto is here to help diagnose and resolve the issue quickly. The last thing you need on a freeway at high speed is only partial control of your steering and suspension components.
5. Car Won’t Move or Loses Power to the Wheels
In severe cases, a completely broken axle will result in a loss of power to the wheels. The engine may run fine, but the wheels won’t turn. At this point, your vehicle is immobile and needs immediate attention. If that happens, call Arvada Square Auto and we’ll help you get back on the road safely.
Don’t Wait, Get It Checked!
A bad axle isn’t just a nuisance; it’s a safety hazard. Left unchecked, it can lead to total failure and leave you stranded. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s best to have your vehicle inspected by a trusted auto repair shop right away. Luckily, we’re your neighborhood mechanic!
At Arvada Square Auto, we’ve been helping our community stay safe on the road for decades. Your axles might be out of sight, but they should never be out of mind. Stay safe, know the signs, and let our team take care of the rest. You can call us directly or make an appointment online. We look forward to serving you!