The drive shaft is integral to a vehicle’s overall operation. Meant to transfer power from the gearbox to the wheels, it’s a component that is subject to a decent amount of wear and tear. As such, it does need to be repaired from time to time.
The thing about a damaged drive shaft is that it won’t stop the vehicle from moving. The vehicle will still operate, just much less efficiently than it did before. However, the more you drive on a damaged drive shaft, the more collateral damage you could cause to its surrounding components.
For this reason, it’s important to know how to spot a bad drive shaft. That’s where this article comes in. Without further ado, here are the signs that it’s time for a drive shaft repair in Cicero, Illinois.
There’s Vibration Coming from Under Your Vehicle
A common sign that a drive shaft is damaged is that there’s excess vibration coming from under the vehicle. This typically presents itself on the passenger side. In most cases, it occurs due to a broken or loose U-joint.
This vibration isn’t just uncomfortable — it can be detrimental to other components in your vehicle. It can put substantial stress on them, causing them to wear down long before their time. If not repaired in a timely manner, it could even cause a vehicle to stop working entirely.
If you feel excess vibration coming from your vehicle, it’s best that you have it inspected by an auto repair technician as soon as possible. They will be able to determine the source of the problem and take action to fix it.
There Are Thudding Sounds Coming from Your Vehicle
Another sign that your drive shaft might be damaged is that there are continuous thudding sounds coming from your vehicle. This generally occurs as a result of broken U-joints. Because the U-joints are severed, they’re putting added stress on the rest of the drive shaft, causing it to push and pull at times. Thudding and thumping sounds are typically the result.
You don’t want to let this problem persist for long. If allowed to continue, it can cause the vehicle to stop operating entirely. If you notice these sounds, we recommend having your vehicle inspected by an auto repair technician as soon as possible.
You’re Having Trouble Turning Your Vehicle
One of the most common indicators that there’s something wrong with your drive shaft is that you’re having trouble turning your vehicle. Again, as you might expect, this is typically due to broken or worn-down U-joints.
When the U-joints break, they cause the drive shaft to become unstable. As such, you’ll likely end up having to put substantial force into the steering wheel just to get the vehicle to turn.
There are other issues that can cause turning difficulties, but this one is the most common. If you’re experiencing it, you’ll want to take your vehicle to a drive shaft repair shop right away!
There Are Squeaking Noises Coming from Your Vehicle
The last sign that your drive shaft needs to be repaired is that your vehicle is making squeaking noises. These noises are, in all likelihood, coming from the U-joints, which might just need a bit of lubrication.
We recommend taking your vehicle into a local auto repair shop to have it inspected. An experienced mechanic will be able to determine what the problem is and take the necessary actions to fix it.
Looking for Drive Shaft Repair in Cicero, Illinois?
Is your drive shaft in need of attention? Do you need a drive shaft repair in Cicero, Illinois? If so, we here at King Transmission Company have you covered.
Regardless of the problem you’re dealing with, our team of skilled and experienced auto repair specialists can help. We work with all makes and models.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
