The role of the drive shaft is to convert torque from the engine and pass it to the wheels. If the drive shaft goes bad, it can create a vehicle that’s not only dysfunctional, but unsafe as well.
The question you might have now, is: how do you determine whether your drive shaft needs to be repaired? This drive shaft repair shop in Westchester, Illinois is going to review some of the most common signs below.
Your Steering Wheel Is Hard to Turn
One sign that you might need drive shaft repair is that your steering wheel is hard to turn. Yes, there are other factors that can lead to this problem. However, a bad drive shaft is a common one.
In most cases, this has to do with worn or damaged U-joints. If this is the case, you’ll need to have these replaced. If you don’t, further wear and tear will take place, causing damage to spread to other parts of your drive shaft.
In these situations, it’s best to have your vehicle inspected by your local drive shaft repair shop in Westchester, Illinois. They will be able to assess the damage and make all the required repairs.
There’s Excessive Vibration Coming from Under Your Vehicle
Another sign that you need drive shaft repair is that there’s excessive vibration coming from under your vehicle. We’re not talking about a low rumble — we’re talking about loud and obvious vibration, the likes of which will disturb you instantly.
Again, this likely has to do with a deteriorated U-joint. If the U-joint is severed, the other components of the drive shaft will slam against one another, leading to that vibration we speak of.
Fortunately, the fix is straightforward: you can have the U-joints replaced. Your local drive shaft repair shop in Westchester, Illinois can carry out the work for you.
There Are Squeaking Sounds Coming from Your Vehicle
You should also keep an ear open for squeaking noises. These can indicate several problems. However, a damaged drive shaft is a relatively common source of these sounds.
If you hear squeaking noises while you’re driving, they’re probably coming from your drive shaft. Specifically, they’re probably coming from damaged U-joints. When a U-joint becomes damaged, it can’t hold the components of the drive shaft in place, thereby causing them to rub up against one another and produce that irritating sound.
The fix? You’ll have to replace the U-joints. Your local drive shaft repair shop in Westchester, Illinois can handle the replacement, getting your vehicle back to its prime state.
Your Vehicle Shudders When Accelerating
One last sign that your drive shaft requires repair is that your vehicle shudders when accelerating. In a sense, it almost feels as though part of your vehicle is being left behind, only for it to snap back into place quickly.
You guessed it: this comes down to deteriorated U-joints. Because they’re damaged, they’re not holding the components of the drive shaft in place, allowing them to slide all over the place. This results in that shuddering sensation you feel upon takeoff.
Allowing this problem to persist will only result in further damage. Therefore, it’s important to have it repaired right away. Your local auto repair shop will provide the fix that’s required.
Looking for the Best Drive Shaft Repair Shop in Westchester, Illinois?
Is your vehicle showing signs of a bad drive shaft? Looking for the best drive shaft repair shop in Westchester, Illinois? If so, King Transmission Company is here to help.
Our specialists have repaired drive shafts in all types of vehicles throughout the Westchester area, and we would be happy to do the same for you. Contact us today to get started.