3 Signs That You May Need Drive Shaft Repair

Does it feel like something is off with your car? Does it shake when you drive? Or make some odd noises? If so, the problem could lie in the drive shaft. The drive shaft is a long rod that connects the front of the car to the vehicle's axles. It's used to transmit power and torque from the transmission and engine to the wheels. It's what causes your wheels to move in the right direction when you hit the gas pedal or when you shift gears.

Obviously, it's a pretty important component and it needs to be serviced immediately if it becomes cracked or loose. Here are three signs that your drive shaft may not be working properly:

Rattling or banging noises. Excessive noise is one sign of a damaged drive shaft. If the shaft becomes loose, it can move around while the car is in motion. Even the smallest amount of movement can create a lot of noise. The shaft could bang against the bottom of the car or against the axles to create a constant rattling or banging sound. The sound may become more intense as the car reaches higher speeds.

This is a big problem because the drive shaft could eventually become permanently damaged. It could also damage other parts. Try to get this issue addressed as soon as possible to prevent more serious damage.

Difficulty with steering. When you turn the steering wheel, does it feel like the wheels are stuck or that they just won't cooperate? This could be due to a failing drive shaft. It could be loose, cracked, or otherwise damaged, which means it's not getting the correct message to the axles. You're turning the wheel, but the drive shaft is impeding the axles from following directions.

This isn't just a costly issue. It's also an unsafe one. If you're having any difficulty steering, then you need to have the drive shaft examines as quickly as possible.

Shaking. Does the car shake and vibrate while you drive? There could be any number of problems here, including suspension issues and bad alignment. However, a damaged drive shaft could also be the main culprit.

One sign that it could be the drive shaft and not something else is that the drive shaft will cause the floor boards to shake. If it's the alignment, you may feel it in the steering wheel and the way the car moves, but you likely won't feel the floor boards shake. Either way, you should probably have the car inspected soon.

For more information, visit your mechanic. He or she can inspect your drive shaft and other elements in your car to find the solution. To learn more, contact a company such as Turnersville Transmission Center.

Share