Your car driveshaft is an essential part of the drivetrain – if not functioning properly, it can cause a lot of issues. The driveshaft uses torque provided by the engine to turn the car’s wheels, which means that if there is an issue with it, you could notice problems with the vehicle’s handling, or strange sounds while the vehicle is in motion.
You may not know the driveshaft is broken from the way it looks. Its internal parts need to be free of wear and well lubricated in order for it to function properly. So if you notice any of the signs below, you may want to bring in your car for a check-up.
An early sign of driveshaft problems is intense vibrations that come from underneath the vehicle. This happens when driveshaft bushings or the universal joint (U-joint) begins to wear.
Squeaking sounds are caused by a couple of driveshaft problems. They’re not usually an indicator that the driveshaft has failed, but they do typically mean that bearings or the U-joints require lubrication.
This will sound like a loud clunk or knock coming from beneath the vehicle. Usually, this sound is an indication that a U-joint is badly worn and needs replacement.
You may also hear scraping or rattling sounds. Again, these are sounds that indicate that a certain part of the driveshaft needs to be lubricated or that it’s worn out. All noises are a sign you should bring your car in to be checked.
Worn or broken U-joints are a common driveshaft problem. If you know where to look, you can often check the U-joints yourself. Simply put the vehicle in park, put the vehicle into neutral, and then move the U-joint yokes back and forth. Too much movement is an indication that you should take it in for replacement. While you’re at it, check for visible rust on bearing cap seals, which can be another indicator of driveshaft problems.
Loose U-joints or bad center bearings within the driveshaft can cause a worrisome shuddering as you accelerate. This may also be accompanied by unusual sounds. If the car or truck feels like it’s faltering or shuddering when you press the gas, take it in to have the driveshaft checked.
A drive shaft is a rod-like component that transmits torque from your vehicle’s engine to the wheels. It’s essentially the shaft that drives your vehicle. The driveshaft transmits torque at varying angles between driveline components. It’s important that the shaft assembly is flexible because drivetrain axles vibrate up and down and move laterally with braking and acceleration. The driveshaft assembly comprises of; the propeller shaft, universal joints, slip splines and yokes.
It’s important to note that front-wheel drive vehicles don’t have drive shafts. The transmission and axle are combined into a single unit called a transaxle. However, in four wheel and rear wheel drive vehicles the transmission and axle are separate units. Hence the driveshaft which transfers the turning motion of the transmission to the axle.
This component has a tubular design and is usually made from aluminum, steel or carbon fiber to ensure its both strong and lightweight.
It’s important to note that the driveshaft by itself rarely fails. However, due to excessive stress and corrosion it will eventually exhibit signs of failure.
Vibrations and shuddering are the most common sign of a failing driveshaft. If the bushings or U-joint wear out you can experience excessive driveshaft vibration. This may also result from the driveshaft not being bolted down properly or the unit being out of balance. A driveshaft that’s vibrating excessively can also cause the wearing of other drivetrain components.
Unusual noises are another indicator of a worn drive shaft. If the bearings and bushings that support the driveshaft and U-joints fail or get worn they affect the driveshaft’s ability to rotate normally. When this happens, you will experience scraping, squeaking, clanking and rattling sounds.
Are you experiencing a significant amount of shuddering as you accelerate from low speed or a stop position? This is another key sign of failing driveshaft components. A worn center bearing or loose U-joint may cause this. You may also experience some strange sounds as your vehicle shudders.
If you are experiencing problems when taking turns, there is a high likelihood that your driveshaft is worn. A damaged driveshaft prevents wheels from turning properly hence limiting your control of the vehicle.
A driveshaft delivers the power, or torque, to the wheels of your vehicle. If you have a four-wheel drive, it also transmits power from the transmission to the rear axle. In fact, it’s one of the most important components that ensures your car moves. Unfortunately, if your driveshaft is failing or broken, it won’t be able to handle all that torque, which over time, can cause damage.
Knowing the symptoms and signs of a failing driveshaft is key to driving smoothly and safely. Your driveshaft is arguably one of the most critical components in your car. It can be dangerous if there are any problems with it or if it breaks suddenly while driving. It can even result in a total loss of control.
We’ve got some of the most common signs of a failing driveshaft, so you can take preventative action before it breaks while you’re out on the road and replace it with a new or used driveshaft. Common signs of a bad driveshaft include, but aren’t limited to:
vibrations
shuddering
unusual noises
Take a look at each of the most common signs of a bad driveshaft below, so you’ll be better prepared if your driveshaft is failing. We’ve also got information on testing and inspecting a driveshaft and the likely costs of repairing or replacing one, depending on your motor.
Most steering wheel vibrations are caused by a problem with the car’s wheels, but it can sometimes indicate a problem with the driveshaft.
If you can feel vibrations, even subtle ones, through your steering wheel or the footwell, your driveshaft may have a problem. As the driveshaft becomes more unstable, the vibrations will become more intense.
A failing driveshaft is often most noticeable when you’re turning or cornering sharply. You may notice a clicking sound, especially if you pick up speed while you turn.
Any clicking or knocking sounds should be looked at as soon as possible, either by a professional or a knowledgeable home mechanic. They could mean a faulty CV joint, which can make your vehicle pull to one side while you’re on the road.
When you pick up speed from a stopped position or simply when you accelerate while out on the road, you may notice a juddering from your vehicle, accompanied by any of the noises we’ve mentioned above.
While juddering can result from any number of faults, including imbalanced tires and worn-out spark plugs, it’s best to get it checked out.
The joints in your driveshaft are protected from friction with plenty of grease. If the gaiters that hold this grease become damaged, they can leak and allow a fap where grit and dirt from the road can enter. The moving parts within the driveshaft will experience more friction, which is bad news.
As a result, you may notice a squeaking sound from the dried-out gaitors. That’s the sound of metal on metal and is the precursor to grinding.
As well as clicking while turning or accelerating, you may notice the following noises:
knocking
grinding
clunking
Worn-out driveshaft joints can cause all sorts of odd noises which can start suddenly. They’re a sign that your driveshaft isn’t rotating normally and that it’s time to inspect the driveshaft yourself or get to the nearest mechanic.
If your drive shaft cover is spoiled or torn, your driveshaft is vulnerable to contaminants and becoming dry as the lubricating grease leaks away.
Luckily, this problem is easy enough to identify and fix if you’re happy to climb under your car and have a look. Look for any cracks or holes and grease splashes around the car tires. You’ll need to replace the grease and fit a new driveshaft cover, provided your driveshaft is in good condition and hasn’t sustained any damage.
It’s unlikely that your driveshaft will suddenly break while you’re on the road – you’re more likely to notice symptoms that it’s failing well before this. However, if it does break suddenly, your car may simply stop driving, and you’ll have to leave it where it is or get it towed. That’s why it’s critical to have your driveshaft fixed or replaced as soon as there are any signs of a problem.
When driving, pay attention to any unusual noises, such as clicking, grinding or knocking, especially when you’re cornering. See if you can feel any vibrations in your steering wheel that feel stronger with speed.
If you’re inspecting your driveshaft yourself, check the following:
check the driveshaft cover for any punctures or cracks
makes sure the driveshaft is fitted tightly at each end
ensure there’s no grease around the driveshaft
look for any damaged or missing parts
check your gaiters for signs of wear and tear is a good idea
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