What Are the Symptoms of a Bad CV Joint in a Car?
2 Answers
If the CV joint in a car is damaged, regular "clicking" noises will occur during normal steering or when driving over bumps. In severe cases, it may even lead to a loss of power. A "clicking" sound during steering is usually caused by damage to the outer CV joint, although the inner CV joint could also be the culprit, but the outer CV joint is more likely to be at fault. A "clicking" sound when driving over bumps is typically due to damage to the inner CV joint. In fact, if the inner CV joint is damaged, the noise will also occur when driving straight. Below are some relevant explanations: 1. Definition of a CV joint: A CV joint, also known as a constant velocity joint, connects the drive shaft to the wheel. It is a crucial component in the car's drivetrain, ensuring that power is continuously transmitted to the wheels in any direction, especially when the wheels are bouncing. 2. Classification of CV joints: There are two common types of CV joints used in passenger cars. One is the fixed-type CV joint, which allows only relative rotation between the driving and driven shafts during torque transmission without axial displacement. This type is usually located near the wheel and is commonly referred to as the outer CV joint. The other is the plunging-type CV joint, which not only allows relative rotation between the driving and driven shafts during torque transmission but also permits axial displacement. This type is typically found near the drive axle and is commonly referred to as the inner CV joint.
The symptoms of a bad CV joint are quite obvious, and I've encountered them several times while driving. The most typical sign is a clicking or popping sound from under the car when turning, especially during sharp turns, which feels like metal grinding. At higher speeds in a straight line, the car body may shake slightly, and the steering wheel vibrates, making the whole vehicle unstable. Over time, grease may leak out, leaving black stains on the drive shaft. If left unrepaired, a completely failed CV joint can cause the front wheels to stop moving, leading to a troublesome breakdown on the road. I remember the last time I went for repairs, the mechanic said it was caused by wear and aging, and driving on bumpy roads accelerates the damage. For safety, it's best to get it checked as soon as you notice anything wrong to avoid major issues.
