What are the symptoms of a damaged CV joint?
3 Answers
Here is a detailed introduction to the symptoms of a damaged CV joint in a car: 1. Abnormal noises: Unusual sounds or jamming during use. 2. Types of CV joints: Car CV joints are divided into inner CV joints and outer CV joints. The internal components of a CV joint fit tightly together with almost no gap. If the gap is relatively large, it indicates severe wear of the CV joint, which requires replacement. 3. Connection points: The inner CV joint of a car connects to the transmission differential, while the outer CV joint connects to the wheel. 4. Composition: A car CV joint consists of a bell-shaped housing, tripod bearing steel balls, a dust cover, a retaining ring, and grease.
When driving with a damaged CV joint, the most noticeable symptom is a loud clicking or popping noise coming from the car during turns, especially when taking sharp turns or accelerating through a turn. Vibration in the steering wheel is also common, feeling like a slight shake during acceleration as if the road is uneven, but it's actually a CV joint issue. I've also seen oil leakage under the car, which happens when the seal at the joint breaks and the grease leaks out. If left unrepaired for a long time, the steering can become stiff and less smooth, and tire wear accelerates unevenly, affecting handling safety. Once, my car had this issue, and I delayed fixing it for too long. Later, I found out it wasn't just about the noise—it even caused the axle to deform. I recommend getting a professional inspection at the first sign of any symptoms to avoid major problems. After all, driving safety is the top priority—don't risk big issues for small neglect.
From a mechanic's perspective, a damaged CV joint will first produce a clicking or popping noise, especially when turning as the wheels bear uneven loads. The vibration intensifies during acceleration, with noticeable shaking felt through the steering wheel, and sometimes the axle may wobble causing overall vehicle instability. Another telltale sign is grease leakage - when the boot tears, lubricant will seep out and drip onto the ground or the inner wheel hub. Left unrepaired, the issue worsens and could lead to driveshaft failure, creating extremely dangerous sudden wheel detachment. During diagnosis, I can pinpoint the problem by sound, such as through low-speed sharp turn tests. Maintenance advice includes regularly inspecting boots for cracks or wear, and recommending full driveshaft replacement during repairs to prevent recurring issues. Never compromise on cheap fixes - safe driving relies on proper maintenance.
