What is the method to determine if the inner CV joint is damaged?
2 Answers
Methods to determine if the inner CV joint is damaged include: 1. Abnormal noises when the steel balls are stuck; 2. Crushed steel balls, where the engine's power cannot be transmitted to the wheels, rendering the vehicle immobile. The inner CV joint consists of a bell-shaped housing, tripod bearing or steel balls, dust cover, retaining ring, and grease. The CV joint, also known as a constant velocity joint, functions to transmit the engine's power from the transmission to the two front wheels, enabling the car to drive at high speeds. The friction surface of the CV joint has high rigidity and requires a rubber boot for protection to prevent water and sand particles from entering. Ingress of sand particles can accelerate wear, create gaps, and cause damage to the front axle steering ball joint rod boot and the entire suspension system.
To diagnose inner CV joint damage, I typically start by listening for unusual noises while driving. If you hear continuous popping or clicking sounds when accelerating during turns, especially during sharp turns or uphill climbs, it's likely a sign of inner CV joint wear. Checking for grease leakage from the driveshaft boot is also crucial. After parking, inspect the area around the axle for any grease leakage—excessive grease is a clear indicator of damage. The most reliable method is to jack up the car and manually shake the driveshaft. If you feel excessive looseness or wobbling, it means the CV joint needs replacement. Ignoring this issue can lead to cascading damage in the drivetrain and even loss of wheel control, which is extremely dangerous. I recommend seeking a professional inspection as soon as any abnormality is detected. Regular maintenance can also prevent such problems, such as inspecting the driveshaft condition every 20,000 kilometers—it’s both cost-effective and ensures safety.
