Diagnosing an axle problem is not something everyone can do. But when you hear strange noises when driving, it is likely something that needs attention ASAP. Having a basic understanding of the different types of problems with axles and axle components can give the advantage of catching something before it gets worse.
With noises that occur in just one or more, but not all, driving modes, it may be the ring and pinion gears. But if the noise is common to all drive modes, it could be the wheel bearings or just the tires causing the sound.
One way you can be almost sure it is just the tires is if the speed or type of road surface changes the noise. With tires, the tone of the noise will typically lower along with the speeds.
Going back to the axle itself, it the noise you hear is louder on turns, you might be looking at a problem with the axle wheel bearings. If you hear a distinctive clunk, when changing speeds, it could be one of three things: worn differential shaft, worn thrust washers, or worn U-joints.
Vibration, rather than noise, could be several different things. It could just be the tires, but it could also be a damaged drive shaft, a problem with the shaft bearings, loose parts like the pinion gear nut or wheel lug nuts, a bent axle shaft (did you hit a curb recently?), worn U-joints, or a problem with the pinion.
With axle noise, axle gear noise, and other issues you have linked directly to the axle, there are many other potential problems from lubricant issues to something more serious. If you have ruled out some of the more basic issues like loose lug nuts or damaged tires, you may need to look to an auto shop to help you with the diagnosis of the problem.
Related Posts
Car batteries are at the heart of every vehicle’s electrical system, providing the power needed to start the engine, illuminate the headlights, and keep the accessories running smoothly. But what exactly is car battery voltage, and how does it affect a car's performance? Whether you’re dealing with a dead battery or simply curious about [...]
Have you ever looked at the oil change price on your receipt and wondered why it costs what it does? While it might seem like a simple service, there’s more to it than just draining old oil and pouring in new. Let’s break it down so you can understand what goes into the price [...]
As an EV owner, understanding your vehicle's battery is critical. From its capacity to its lifespan, and everything in between, we'll guide you through what you need to know to optimize your EV experience. So buckle up and get ready - we're about to shed some light on the electrifying world of EV batteries. What [...]
