What sound does a bad CV joint make?
3 Answers
When a CV joint is damaged, it produces a clicking or clunking sound. Typically, a CV joint contains a tripod joint with rolling elements that extend and retract inside. If one of the tripod joint rollers fails, it can cause abnormal noises and vibrations. Initially, there may be no sound, but over time, as the lubrication becomes contaminated and wear increases, a clicking or clunking noise will become noticeable, especially when accelerating during turns. The CV joint, also known as a constant velocity joint, is a crucial component in a car's drivetrain system. Its function is to transfer power from the transmission to the front wheels, enabling the car to drive at high speeds. There are various types of constant velocity joints used in cars, with the most common being the ball-type CV joint and the tripod-type CV joint.
I remember last time when I was turning the car, I suddenly heard a clicking sound, like metal beads rolling around. It was particularly noticeable, especially when accelerating while turning the steering wheel. At first, I thought it was just a stone stuck in the tire, but the noise stopped when I parked and returned when driving again. Later, when I took it to the repair shop, the mechanic said the CV joint was worn out, and the rubber boot had torn, allowing dirt to contaminate the grease, causing the axle core to wear and make noise. If not fixed promptly, the entire driveshaft could fail, making the wheel unable to turn, which is extremely dangerous while driving. I’ve also heard similar stories from other car owners—some mistook it for a suspension issue and ended up needing more expensive repairs. Now, I check the undercarriage every few thousand kilometers to see if the rubber boots have cracks or oil leaks. My advice is: if you hear this kind of noise, don’t delay. Get it checked by a reliable mechanic as soon as the clicking starts—don’t skimp on small repairs that could turn into big problems. Safety first!
Having driven for decades, I've seen numerous cases of CV joint failures. The sound is typically a metallic clicking noise, mainly occurring during turns or when accelerating from a stop. The principle is that the rotating part inside the CV joint wears out, causing unstable connections—like gears misaligning, catching, and then releasing. Why does it fail? Usually, it's due to the rubber boot aging and cracking, allowing dirt and water to enter and wear away the lubrication layer, or prolonged aggressive driving accelerating wear. Differentiating it from other noises isn't hard: a wheel bearing failure sounds like a hum, while suspension issues produce squeaks. My advice is to detect and repair early. At the first sign of unusual noise, stop and inspect the chassis to check if the boot is cracked. Replacing a CV joint only costs a few hundred bucks, but delaying it could lead to a driveshaft failure costing thousands. For safety, don't neglect regular maintenance. If you hear loud noises during high-speed turns, slow down and find a shop for inspection.
