CV Joint Repair & CV Joint Replacement
If identified early, boot replacement can save you money, but it is still a labor-intensive operation. For joints that have gone an extended period without lubricant, you will likely need to replace the entire axle. In some vehicles, the CV joint cannot simply be replaced – the entire half-shaft will need to be replaced. The half-shaft is crucial to propelling front-wheel drive vehicles.
If your car’s CV joints or boots need to be serviced, you may want to consider having the service performed sooner rather than later to avoid further damage to your vehicle. The easiest and most practical path to an efficient and effective repair is to bring your car to a trusted technician.
Understanding Your CV Axle Components
The most important part of CV axle maintenance is inspection of the protective boots. Replacement of cracked rubber boots can save the higher expense involved in joint or half-axle replacement.
These components are constantly exposed to the ups-and-downs of the road you drive on. Despite this stress, these joints can last tens of thousands of miles, so long as the protective boots covering them remain intact. CV joint failure almost always results from boot failure, resulting in the loss of grease and the entry of dirt and moisture.
What Exactly Are CV Boots?
CV boots are protective rubber or plastic components that cover the CV axle. Their job is to provide protection from bumps on the road. With constant use, the flexible rubber fatigues over time. Ultimately wearing down, the rubber cracks and allows the lubricant out and dirt and moisture in. RobsAuto offers free brake inspections, which is the perfect time to also inspect CV boots.
CV Joints Driveshafts FAQs
Q : How much does it cost to replace a CV joint?
It’s tough to give a general quote for CV joint replacement. The cost can vary, largely depending on the type of CV joints you have. However, by calling the team at RobsAuto, you can get a specific quote on CV joint replacement for your vehicle. Contact us today to speak with a RobsAuto service technician about your CV joint replacement needs.
Q : How much does it cost to replace a drive shaft?
It’s tough to give a general quote for drive shaft replacement. The cost can vary, depending on such factors as the kind of vehicle you drive, which shaft you have, and whether it’s a single or two-piece drive shaft. By connecting with the team at RobsAuto, you can get a specific quote on drive shaft replacement for your vehicle. Contact us today to learn more.
Q : Where are CV joints located on a car?
If your vehicle has front-wheel drive, then it definitely has constant velocity, or CV joints, located at the ends of the drive shafts. A lot of rear-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles will also have CV joints. You should be able to spot the CV joint boot of your car on the inside of the wheel, underneath your vehicle.
Q : Is it safe to drive a car with a bad CV joint?
CV joints play an essential role in the way your vehicle operates, allowing the axles and wheels to flex as the vehicle is driven—helping to account for things like turns and uneven surfaces. If your CV joints go out, it’s imperative to have them repaired as soon as possible. You can usually drive on the car for a short time, but it won’t last for long.
Q : How do I know when my drive shaft or CV joints need to be replaced?
There are a number of telltale signs that your drive shaft needs to be replaced. These signs include feeling vibrations as you drive; hearing a loud clunking noise; hearing a squealing sound when you drive; or experiencing sudden difficulty turning. As for CV joints, you know they need replacement when you hear a clicking sound as you drive; in particular, hearing clicking or popping sounds when you turn lets you know your CV joints are bad.
Q : What are the signs of a bad drive shaft?
There are several ways you can tell when your drive shaft is going bad. If you feel intense vibrations coming from underneath your vehicle, that’s one of the biggest red flags. Additionally, be alert for any unusual noises—clunking or scraping sounds coming from underneath your vehicle. If you notice any of these warning signs, make an appointment with a RobsAuto service technician right away.
Q : Can CV joints be rebuilt?
Generally speaking, it’s not recommended that you attempt to rebuild the CV joints on your own vehicle. Not only can it imperil the safety of your vehicle, but it’s frankly more cost-effective to just have them replaced. To schedule a CV joint replacement service, contact the professionals at Meineke today.