How long is a drive shaft supposed to last? And is there anything you can do to help it last longer? These are some questions we often receive from vehicle owners who want to keep their car running smoothly.
Below, this drive shaft repair mechanic in Roselle, Illinois is going to explain what can impact your drive shaft’s lifespan, and how you can tell when it’s time for a repair.
When should you expect your drive shaft to wear out?
The drive shaft delivers power from the transmission to the wheels to make your car move. Every time you accelerate, turn a corner, or slow down, this component is spinning and flexing under a lot of pressure. Over time, all that motion starts to take a toll on the drive shaft.
Most drive shafts will last somewhere between 75,000 and 100,000 miles.
If you do a lot of highway driving, your drive shaft has it relatively easy. But if you are regularly stuck in stop-and-go traffic, hauling heavy items, or driving on rough roads, that can shorten its lifespan.
The best thing you can do is schedule regular inspections and service visits with your local drive shaft repair mechanic in Roselle, Illinois. With regular maintenance, your drive shaft could easily last as long as your car.
What makes a drive shaft wear out faster?
Many factors can impact the lifespan of your drive shaft. One of the main ones is lubrication. If the joints dry out, they will wear faster. But even a minor impact (like hitting a curb) can bend the shaft slightly.
Your local drive shaft repair mechanic can find the problem fast. During an inspection, they will look for signs of problems. Catching those early can easily add thousands of extra miles to your drive shaft’s life.
What are the warning signs of a failing drive shaft?
Your car usually tries to warn you before the drive shaft gives out completely. You’ll just have to know what to pay attention to.
If you start noticing vibrations under your seat or a shudder when you accelerate, that could be a sign that the drive shaft or one of its connected drivetrain parts is wearing down. Some drivers also feel a rough jolt when turning.
If you see any of these signs, bring your car to your local drive shaft repair mechanic in Roselle, Illinois. They can diagnose the problem before it costs you more money.
When you take your car in, the mechanic will usually check for cracks or loose joints. Then they will inspect the U-joints and bearings and make sure the shaft is properly aligned and balanced. Regular inspection and maintenance can prevent uneven wear and make your drive shaft last a lot longer.
Can you still drive if the drive shaft fails?
If a drive shaft breaks while you are driving, your car instantly loses power to the wheels. You might hear a loud bang or feel a sudden jerk before it comes to a stop. In some cases, the broken shaft can even hit the road or damage the underside of your car.
Any of these can be a dangerous situation. Regular inspections by your local drive shaft repair mechanic can help you avoid that kind of breakdown altogether.
Looking for a drive shaft repair mechanic in Roselle, Illinois?
A failing drive shaft can cause performance issues or even leave you stranded on the road. But with regular inspections and timely maintenance, you can extend its lifespan. As the top-rated drive shaft repair mechanic in Roselle, Illinois, our mechanics at King Transmission Company can inspect, repair, or replace your drive shaft. Contact us today to schedule a service.
