CV Joint
The CV joint, also known as the constant velocity joint, is an important component within a drive shaft in most vehicles. The specific drive shaft that contains the CV joint is the one which connects to the wheel and transmission of the vehicle at each end of the drive shaft. The CV joints are fully functional and can bend as necessary. The CV joints allow for the vehicle's wheels to turn at a constant velocity. The CV joint is usually found in front-wheel drive (FWD) vehicles but it is also found in many rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive vehicles.
When driving you will experience many bumps and rough spots on the road. This will cause the wheels of your vehicle to go up and down regularly. This means that the drive shaft which connects to the wheel cannot be a solid drive shaft. The CV joint was implemented into front-wheel drive vehicles for the fact that it can keep at a constant velocity no matter what direction that the wheels may be travelling in.
Inspecting the CV Joint
You will want to inspect the CV joint every three to six months to keep on top of the health of it. If the CV joint is worn out or damaged then you will want to replace it. A CV joint may need replaced simply due to it aging and not because it suffered from any serious damage. The CV boot may also need replaced as it is prone to deterioration as it ages. If the CV boot is cracked or damaged then the CV joint may be exposed and prone to damage as well.
With all that said, it is important that you regularly inspect the CV axle and all of the components within it. When a CV boot is damaged it will need to be replaced as soon as possible so damage to the CV joint can be prevented. If the CV joint itself becomes damaged then it will need to be replaced right away so your vehicle can continue driving properly. Also, if you do not replace any of the damaged parts in a timely manner then it is possible that the whole CV axle will need to be replaced as a result of further damage.
Signs of a Damaged CV Joint
There are a few signs that may be noticed which could be indicators of a CV joint that needs to be replaced. The first one would be an audible clicking sound that occurs while driving. This is often a sign that your CV joint is damaged and no longer functioning properly. To troubleshoot this sound if noticed you should drive your vehicle in a full backwards circle while in reverse. The clicking sound will become louder when you do this if it is the CV joint that is damaged. This will mean that it is time for you to purchase a new CV joint and replace your old one. You should do so immediately to make sure that no further damage occurs and to get your vehicle back in the best shape possible once again.
Final Thoughts
The CV joint is a very important component in many vehicles. It can play a major role in the overall performance of your vehicle as it affects the speed which your vehicle can travel. Without a CV joint your vehicle may not be able to maintain a constant speed when driving on rough surfaces or attempting to complete turns.
The health of the CV joint in your vehicle is very important as it will have a direct affect on the overall performance of your vehicle. If any of the CV parts (joint, boot, axle) become damaged then you will want to replace them as quickly as possible. A damaged CV joint can have serious affects on the performance of your vehicle so it is important to replace this part. Lastly, it is necessary to stress on the importance of replacing these parts right away as any further damage could lead to the whole CV axle needing to be replaced.