What is the Axle/CV Shaft Assembly all about? Axle shafts are commonly referred to as “CV axles” or “half-shafts.” An axle shaft is a narrow, pole-like part that connects a wheel to the gears in the transmission. Axles are part of the system that enables the wheels to rotate. One end of the axle shaft is connected to the transmission and the other end is connected to the wheel. The transmission rotates the axle shafts, which rotates the wheels. Without the axles, the tires will not rotate and the car will not move. Axle shafts are comprised of four components: shaft, CV joints, grease and the boots (grease container). The most common reason for the axle to fail is because of the torn boots (grease leaking out). Without the grease, the CV joints will not get lubricated, dirt will enter the joint and the whole axle will eventually wear out. Your car has multiple axle shafts, but in most cases only one will need to be replaced. Even if the CV joints or boots are the only parts of the axle to fail, it is often recommended to replace the entire axle.

Verify the axle shaft needs to be replaced. Remove wheel and replace faulty axle. Torque all fasteners and wheels to factory specifications. Every time you get a major service, the mechanic should perform a basic safety inspection that includes a visual inspection of the axles and boots. If there is grease found around the tires, it is likely that CV boots are leaking. Also, if you hear a loud clicking noise when you make a turn, it can mean that the axles are bad and need replacement. What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Axle/CV Shaft Assembly? Loud clicking noise in front or rear of the car when making a turn. You may notice grease on the inner edges of the tires. How important is this service? Axle shafts connect your transmission to your wheels. When you step on the gas pedal, the transmission gears turn the axle shafts, which then turn the wheels. Broken axle shafts will not rotate, and there will be no connection between your transmission and your wheels;

as a result, your wheels will not move.When you take a corner in your car, the outside wheels have a slightly longer distance to go than the inside wheels. T-Shirts Ken BlockThat means that the outside wheels have to turn a bit faster than the inside. Atv Mud Tire And Wheel PackagesThe piece of mechanical wizardry that makes this possible is called the differential.Barn Red Checkered Curtains The differential allows the drive wheels to rotate at different speeds in turns without the wheel binding or hopping. If you have a rear-wheel drive vehicle, the differential is on the rear axle. You've seen that bulge in the middle of the axle when you're behind a truck – that's the differential. If you have a front-wheel drive vehicle, the differential function is handled by your transaxle.

Of course, all-wheel drive vehicles have differentials on both axles. They also have a center differential or a transfer case between the front and rear axles to compensate for speed differences between the front and rear. Because all the power of the engine is transferred through the various differentials, you can imagine that they are very strong and are built last a long time. That's why it's important to keep your differential properly lubricated. Differential fluid cools and protects the gears. Your service technician will check differential fluid level and top it off if necessary. With low fluid, the differential will run too hot and wear prematurely. Ask your service advisor for when it's recommended to change your differential fluid. Fresh fluid will extend the life of your differential. Your technician will also inspect the u-joints which connect your drive shaft to the differential and may recommend service. Some u-joints can be lubricated as part of a routine lube, oil and filter change as well.

Now, of course differentials eventually wear out and need to be replaced. You might notice a strange noise from you axle area as one of the first warning signs. When the differential shows signs of failing, it's important to repair it. If you leave it too long and it freezes up when you're driving you could lose control of your vehicle and other parts like the axle, driveshaft and transmission could be damaged. To get an estimate on a repair, visit the repair estimator.Checking the rear axle for leaks and changing the oil Did you find this helpful? You can now get the whole How A Car Works site as a beautiful PDF ebook. Over 250 illustrated pages Print out the pages you need and take them to the garage. It's just $5 to buy - exceptional value for money. The PDF is 80mb in size - it's high resolution! Read more essential guides Automatic transmission needs little maintenance other than regular checking of the transmission f... If you have to replace a coil spring on the front suspension, the replacement spring must be of ...

If an engine needs topping up with fresh oil more than usual, or if you see a pool of oil... There are two main types of oil seal: static and dynamic. A static oil seal fits between two non... A spongy feel or increased pedal travel as you apply the footbrake could indicate a leak or air ... Powered by your social love!Regular axle inspection is key to avoiding more costly repairs down the road . The cost of car axle repair can dramatically increase if you have to replace one or both axles. How Your Car Axles Actually Work The axles connect and provide power to the front and rear wheels to the car. As a rotating part, the axles require regular maintenance and repair to stay in good working order. If you do not have your bearings replaced in time, you might need to have your axles serviced, as well. Both front and rear axle repair consists of full replacement of those parts. Front Axle Repairs vs. Rear Axle Repairs Having Meineke Car Care specialists perform the front axle repair keeps the moving components from excessively wearing down the connection point at the transmission.