Symptoms of a Bad CV Joint – This article will show some signs of a bad CV joint to help you identify problems before your car gets stranded midway.
constant velocity joints
These mechanical joints connect the transmission’s power to the wheels. They usually go on front-wheel drive vehicles and other cars with AWD or 4×4 transmissions.
Its function is to transmit the effort of the transmission to the wheels. To achieve this, it has 3 types of movements:
- axial (colour Verde)
- radial (colour Rojo)
- and circular (yellow colour)
CV joint structure
The homokinetic joint is structured by 3 main components:
- the ribbed bar
- casing
- Tripod
- Cubrepolvo
- toothed ring
the ribbed bar
This is a splined shaft at the end of the CV joint that connects it to the transmission or wheel via a bearing or hub.
the casing
The casing is a type of head or “housing” where the tripod and the grease that lubricates both components are housed.
the triploid
The tripod is a set of bearings that allows the piece to have a circular movement.
the dust cover
The dust cover keeps the lubricating grease inside free from water and dust to prevent premature wear and corrosion.
toothed ring
The toothed ring is a part that works together with the speed sensor of the ABS system; it helps generate a wave signal for the computer and calculate the wheel’s speed.
most common faults
The most common faults found in a constant velocity joint are:
- Damaged dust covers
- Excessive end play
damaged dust cover
Dust, humidity and temperature are 3 variables that impair the life of this component. Nice, the boot breaks; dust and water damage the lubricant and, therefore, prematurely wear the gasket. The dust cover is made of plastic.
Excessive axial or circular play
When the tripod or casing has worn too much, it allows the part to play excessively on and off the axis.
Symptoms of a damaged CV joint failure
Now that you know what function it has and what its components are, we will explain the symptoms that appear and help determine that a gasket needs to be replaced:
- Noise when turning
- Vibration when accelerating
The noise when turning
When you turn the wheels, the joints have a circular movement that allows the force from the transmission to continue.
If the joints are dry or worn, they generate noise; you can hear that something thunders continuously and only when turning.
Vibration when accelerating
When a homokinetic joint is damaged, it causes vibration when accelerating. It should be noted that vibration at constant speed is unlikely to come from a failure in a constant velocity joint.
If the vibration occurs only when accelerating, that is, when increasing speed, it comes from a damaged joint.
How to prevent CV joint failures
While it is not necessary to be replacing the grease in the CV joints, it is essential to inspect them from time to time.
Some components to inspect for the care of the homokinetic joints are:
- dust cover
- Engine and transmission mounts
- Dampers
Check that the dust cover is in good condition and that the clamps hold it to prevent water or dust from entering it.
Also, verify that they do not have an axial play; for this, you must exert pressure on the shaft up or down and confirm that it does not have excessive space.
When the engine and transmission support are damaged, they have sudden movements when accelerating or when making speed changes; the joints, subject to the information, suffer the blows and the vibration caused by the damage of the supports, shortening their useful life.
Shock absorbers are another component that, when damaged, allows excessive vibration, oscillations, or shock to go directly to the outer CV joint, generating stresses outside the joint’s allowable range of motion.
Consequences of driving with a damaged CV joint
Although there is no safety risk behind the wheel if this component is damaged, your car’s repair costs can increase when driving with a damaged gasket.
The arrow is the first component to receive that damage because it can become unbalanced; although you can replace or correct that damage by grinding the part, it should not be necessary if you do not postpone this repair.
The most significant risk is losing traction if the joint breaks or comes loose. As there is no force on one of the wheels, the transmission neutralized, leaving your vehicle stranded.
What is a CV joint?
It is a complex piece, which, together with the transmission shaft, has the purpose of connecting two axes arranged longitudinally, not continuously, so that the speed between them is the same at all times. It consists of two Cardan joints joined by a double fork piece so that the rotation altered by one is rectified by the other, thus transmitting a constant movement to the wheels.
Can you ride with a broken CV?
Damage to this part does not compromise driving safety but may increase vehicle repair costs if you drive with a damaged joint.
The arrow, the first part to damaged because it may be unbalanced. Although it can be replaced or repaired by grinding the region, it is not necessary unless the repair delayed.
The most significant risk is running out of traction in case of a break or loss of connection. If one of the wheels does not drive, the transmission disengages, and the vehicle does not roll.
How much does it cost to replace a CV joint?
Replacing a faulty or damaged CV joint can be expensive. Replacement parts alone cost anywhere from $90 to over $200. The final price depends on the car’s make, model and age, the place of purchase, and the general availability of replacement parts. If the vehicle is too old, finding a suitable replacement part may be impossible or cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. If you consume an old carriage or a rare type, chances are there are more expensive parts.
