Your car’s axles are keeping your car moving—literally. They transfer power from the engine to the wheels, allowing you to drive. But axles wear out over time, leading to some serious problems if not addressed. The tricky part is knowing when your axles are showing signs of wear and tear. Waiting too long could result in a dangerous driving situation, not to mention a hefty repair bill. So, how can you tell if your car axles are worn out?
Strange Noises When Turning or Driving
One of the first signs that your car axles might be worn out is unusual noises while driving, especially when turning or accelerating. If you hear clicking, popping, or clunking sounds, it could be a sign that your axle joints, known as CV joints (constant velocity joints), are damaged. These joints are covered by rubber boots that protect them from dirt, debris, and moisture. Over time, these boots can crack or break, allowing grime to enter the joint, which can lead to wear and noise.
If you’re hearing these sounds, it’s not something you want to ignore. The noise will only get worse as the axle continues to wear, and eventually, it could lead to complete axle failure. Pay attention to whether the sound occurs more frequently when turning or driving at lower speeds—these are key indicators that your axles may be worn out.
Vibrations While Driving
Another common sign of worn-out axles is noticeable vibrations when driving. If your axles are damaged or bent, you’ll likely feel a constant shaking or vibrating sensation in your vehicle, especially at higher speeds. While vibrations can be caused by various issues—such as unbalanced tires or a problem with your suspension—a worn axle is a common culprit.
These vibrations happen because the axle is no longer able to rotate the wheels as evenly as it should. The uneven rotation causes instability, which is what you feel in the form of vibrations. Over time, these vibrations can worsen, leading to more significant damage to your vehicle’s drivetrain and suspension.
Grease Leaks on Your Tires or Underneath the Car
If you notice grease spots on your driveway or around your tires, it’s time to take a closer look at your axles. Leaking grease is often a sign that the CV joint boot has cracked or torn, allowing grease to escape. The CV joint relies on this grease for lubrication, so once it starts leaking, the joint is at risk of wearing out much faster.
Check for any visible signs of grease splattered around the inside edge of your tires or on the undercarriage near the wheels. This is a clear sign that your CV boot is damaged, and if left unchecked, it can lead to axle failure.
Difficulty Steering
Worn axles can also affect your ability to steer the vehicle properly. If you notice that your car feels unsteady when making turns or that it’s more difficult to steer than usual, the axles might be the issue. The axles are responsible for transmitting the rotational force to the wheels, and if they’re not functioning correctly, it can affect the overall handling of your vehicle.
You might also notice your steering wheel feels off-center or pulls to one side, especially when you’re accelerating. These are signs that your axle could be worn or damaged, and it’s important to address them before they cause further damage to your vehicle’s steering system.
Car Won’t Move
In the worst-case scenario, a completely worn-out or broken axle will prevent your car from moving at all. If your axle snaps, the wheels won’t receive power from the engine, and your vehicle will become undrivable. If this happens while you’re driving, you could lose control of the vehicle, which is why it’s critical to catch the signs of axle wear before reaching this point.
If your car suddenly won’t move, especially after hearing any of the warning noises or feeling vibrations, a broken axle could very well be the cause. At this stage, it’s not just about repairs—it’s about ensuring your safety.
What Should You Do If You Notice These Signs
If you’ve noticed any of the above signs, it’s essential to get your car checked by a professional as soon as possible. Driving with worn or damaged axles puts you at risk of a complete axle failure, which can lead to costly repairs and unsafe driving conditions. Axles are a key component of your vehicle’s drivetrain, and any issues with them need to be addressed promptly to keep your car in safe working condition.
Notice any strange sounds or vibrations while driving? It might be time to get your axles checked. Bring your car into The Model Garage today for a thorough inspection and ensure your vehicle is safe to drive.