What are the effects of a damaged inner CV joint in a car?
2 Answers
The effects of a damaged inner CV joint in a car: 1. The vehicle may pull to one side, and steering adjustments may become ineffective, potentially leading to accidents; 2. It accelerates tire wear; 3. In severe cases, it may damage the power steering pump; 4. The steering wheel may lock up, making it impossible to steer. The car's CV joint mainly consists of a sliding sleeve, tripod joint, drive shaft, inner race, cage, and outer housing. The CV joint, also known as a constant velocity joint, transmits power from the transmission to the wheels and ensures that power is transmitted without loss when turning. CV joints are divided into inner and outer joints. When a vehicle makes noise while turning, it indicates a problem with the outer CV joint, possibly due to a damaged dust boot causing oil leakage, which leads to insufficient lubrication and wear of the steel balls and cage inside the joint.
I've been running an auto repair shop for over a decade, and the most common symptom of a bad inner CV joint is clicking or popping noises when turning, especially noticeable at full lock. If not repaired promptly, the noise worsens, steering feels heavier, and the wheel may even lock up causing power loss – extremely dangerous at highway speeds with high risk of skidding or losing control. It can also damage the axle shaft or other drivetrain components, leading to more extensive repairs. I recommend drivers pay attention to unusual noises and get professional inspection immediately when they occur – don't try to save on this cost. Include drive shafts in regular maintenance checks to prolong component life. Full replacement typically costs just a few hundred to slightly over a thousand RMB, far cheaper than towing fees or accident damages. Remember: safety first – don't wait until an accident happens to regret inaction.
