How Long Can You Drive with a Noisy CV Joint?
2 Answers
Noise from the CV joint indicates that it has already worn out, and it is recommended to repair it as soon as possible. If not repaired, the remaining drivable distance and time can vary significantly—ranging from up to a year or several thousand kilometers to as little as a few days or a few dozen kilometers. This depends on factors such as the extent of wear on the CV joint, road conditions, and driving habits. For front-wheel-drive vehicles, the CV joint plays a crucial role. The front wheels not only need to rotate but also steer. During high-speed driving, the wheels must turn while rotating, requiring a flexible connection between the drive shaft and the wheels. The CV joint serves this purpose, enabling 360-degree rotation through its internal design.
As a veteran driver with over a decade of experience, you really can't ignore abnormal noises from the steering knuckle. Last time I heard that creaking sound, I rushed to the repair shop in a panic. The mechanic checked and said the lubricant inside the knuckle had dried up, with severe bearing wear. Continuing to drive would inevitably lead to the knuckle bursting, potentially causing the steering wheel to lock up and the car to lose control. I barely managed to drive 20 kilometers for repairs that time, and nearly had an accident due to road bumps along the way. The repair ended up costing more as I had to replace the entire joint assembly. Never gamble with such issues - if you hear abnormal noises, stop driving immediately. At most, drive a short distance to the nearest auto repair shop. Safety is more important than anything. Regular maintenance checks for torn dust covers can prevent similar failures.
