What are the symptoms of a bad inner CV joint in a car?
3 Answers
When the inner CV joint of a car is damaged, it will exhibit the following symptoms: 1. The main manifestation is the sticking of steel balls, which will produce a clicking sound, but this must occur when changing direction. 2. Another symptom is the crushing of steel balls, which means the engine's power cannot be transmitted to the wheels, and the inner and outer CV joints slip. This is usually caused by damage to the CV joint boot and lack of lubrication. 3. When the outer CV joint is damaged, the car will make a clicking sound when turning. Below are the functions of the CV joint in a car: (1) The function of the CV joint in a car is to connect the drive shaft to the wheels, making it a crucial component in the car's transmission system. (2) It allows the driving force to be continuously transmitted to the wheels in any direction, especially when the wheels are bumpy, where its effect is most significant. (3) The inner CV joint connects to the transmission transfer case, while the outer CV joint connects to the wheels. Whether it's power output or when the car is turning, it is generally the outer CV joint that plays the primary role.
I've been driving for nearly twenty years and have seen many cases of inner CV joint failures. The most typical symptom is a clicking or grinding noise from the front wheels when turning, especially during sharp turns - it sounds like metal rubbing against metal. During acceleration, there's noticeable vibration from underneath the car, with severe steering wheel shake that makes the vehicle feel unstable. Once when I was navigating mountain roads and heard unusual noises during turns, I initially thought it was tire wear, but the mechanic diagnosed it as severe inner CV joint wear. Additionally, if the rubber boot tears, it leaks grease, leaving oil stains on the ground that reveal the problem. If not replaced promptly, the steering might lock up, creating a risk of losing control - by the time an accident occurs, it's too late. I recommend veteran car owners regularly inspect their chassis and address any warning signs immediately, rather than waiting until an accident happens and regretting it.
As a car enthusiast, I'm quite familiar with inner CV joint failures. When driving, you'll notice a clicking sound during turns, especially loud at low speeds with full lock—that's a sign of joint wear. During straight-line acceleration, the car may wobble and vibrate, causing steering wheel numbness and affecting control. If the rubber boot is torn and grease leaks out, the noise becomes even harsher. I've dealt with similar issues on my own car—once detected, immediate repair is crucial. Otherwise, accelerated wear can lead to wheel seizure, which is extremely dangerous at high speeds. Maintenance is key: inspect the rubber boot regularly, replace it at the first sign of cracks, and maintain proper lubrication to avoid major overhauls.
