The torque power, which enables the wheels to spin, comes from the engine.
It is the job of the driveshaft, a cylindrical shaft, to deliver torque power from the engine to the wheels. Because the driveshaft rotates at extremely high speeds while delivering torque power to the wheels, any problems with the driveshaft will impact the running of the car.
It can also lead to symptoms and complications which impact your car performance in other areas. For this reason, it is important that you can identify signs your car’s driveshaft is failing or damaged.
Watch Out for These Symptoms of a Failing Driveshaft
Without a functional drive shaft, you won’t be able to drive your car. For this reason, it is important that you identify the signs which indicate an issue with the driveshaft of your car. Here’s what you should know–
Excessive Vibrations
The number one clue which will alert you about a potential driveshaft issue is when you notice intense vibrations generating from underneath the car. A few things to note:
- The driveshaft is balanced out very precisely prior to installation.
- This precise balancing is necessary to prevent the driveshaft from vibrating while rotating at high speeds.
- Worn out bushings, which essentially secure the shaft, or bushings which are damaged can also lead the driveshaft to vibrate intensely.
Problem with U-Joint Rotation
The U-Joint or universal joints, which are attached as a pair to the driveshaft, are a part of the driveshaft system.
- U-Joints are designed to rotate at a steady pace.
- If this rotation speed is altered in any way (too fast, slow, or no rotation), then it will affect the rotation of the driveshaft as well.
- A professional mechanic will be able assess the exact issue and if the U-Joint is found to be highly damaged or failing, then the mechanic may advise you to replace the driveshaft.
Abnormal Clunking, Scraping, or Rattling Sounds
If the bushings or bearings are worn out or damaged, it impacts the driveshaft. This is what will happen:
- Your car will produce sounds like a rattling, scraping, or clunking noise.
- The worn-out parts will impact the driveshaft’s ability to rotate comfortably.
- The noises will be more pronounced when the gas pedal is engaged or when you drive the car in reverse gear.
- These noises should not be ignored, and it is a strong indication that your car is in need of professional servicing.
- In most cases, the driveshaft will have to be replaced to effectively address the issue.
Trouble with Turning the Car
Since the driveshaft delivers torque power to the wheels, the first casualty of any driveshaft problem will be the functionality of the car.
- The first thing you will notice is difficulty in turning your car.
- Because the delivery of torque power to the wheels is impaired, the wheels will be starved of the required amount of torque power.
- This will cause a slow down or hesitation in response to the steering.
- Remember, in addition to impacting the drivability of the car, a failing or damaged driveshaft will also lead to uneven wear of your tires.
Driveshaft Concerns
The driveshaft is a crucial component of your car because it is responsible for delivering power from the car’s transmission to the car wheels. If damage to the driveshaft is extensive, it will not work, meaning the wheels won’t be able to receive the necessary torque power. This in turn means you won’t be able to drive your car.
For this reason, any issue with the driveshaft of your car should not be ignored. If you notice any of the above-mentioned symptoms, it is best that you have your car looked at by a professional mechanic.
Replacing the driveshaft will not only address the immediate issues, but it can also prevent other issues from cropping up such as uneven wear of tires or the drivability of the car.
Car Mechanics You Can Trust!
If you have noticed any of the above-mentioned symptoms while driving your car, don’t ignore them. It could be a bad or failing driveshaft issue.
Accurate Services professional mechanics can help diagnose the exact issue and provide you with a resolution. We are experts in all kinds of car repairs. Give us a call today at 520-620-9129 or schedule an appointment online at your convenience!