A broken drive shaft can turn a normal drive into a frightening and stressful situation in seconds. Below, this drive shaft repair company in Winfield, Illinois is going to explain what actually happens when a drive shaft breaks.
What happens in the moment of failure?
When a drive shaft suddenly breaks while you are driving, it feels like your car has given up all at once. The power that normally flows to the wheels disappears instantly, and the car is unable to keep moving forward. Many drivers notice a loud clunking sound or feel strong vibrations under the car just before it slows down and finally comes to a complete stop.
If the broken shaft drops down far enough to slam against the road, it can create sparks and may even scrape or damage the underside of the car. This can be an extremely dangerous situation if it happens at higher speeds on the highway.
Why do drive shafts break?
There are many reasons why drive shafts can break. For example, parts like U-joints or bearings naturally wear down over time, and rust or corrosion slowly eat away at the metal until it becomes too weak.
In other cases, the damage comes from sudden impacts, like hitting road debris or striking a curb. A lack of proper lubrication can also cause friction to build up, and that friction creates weak spots in the drive shaft.
An experienced drive shaft repair company in Winfield, Illinois can usually tell just by carefully examining the break. They can tell if it happened slowly from long-term wear and tear or if it was caused by a sudden impact that broke it all at once.
Signs you might catch beforehand.
A drive shaft does not always break without giving the driver some warning signs first. In many cases, there are clues you can notice if you pay attention to how your car feels and sounds.
Drivers usually notice clunking noises when shifting gears or vibrations coming from underneath the car while driving. There may also be a faint shudder during acceleration or even some extra difficulty when trying to turn.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to take your car to a professional drive shaft repair company in Winfield, Illinois. They can run a quick inspection to see if the drive shaft or nearby parts are starting to wear down before the problem reaches the point of completely breaking.
What to do if it happens on the road?
If your drive shaft breaks while you are driving, the most important thing is to stay calm and not panic. Steer the car carefully and let the vehicle slow down naturally while you guide it toward the side of the road in a safe spot.
Do not try to crawl under the car to look at the damage, especially if you are stuck on a busy street with traffic passing by. Instead, call for a tow truck or roadside assistance and wait in a safe location until trained professionals arrive and handle the situation for you.
Looking for a Drive Shaft Repair Company in Winfield, Illinois?
A broken drive shaft can put both your personal safety and your car at serious risk. If you think your car has a worn or broken drive shaft, you shouldn’t hesitate to visit a professional drive shaft repair company in Winfield, Illinois—like King Transmission Company. Our mechanics can inspect, repair, or replace your drive shaft so you can drive safely and confidently. Contact us today to get started.
