A
modern automobile contains a staggering number of components, every
one of which plays a key role in maintaining optimal performance.
Unfortunately, unless you happen to be a certified car mechanic, many
of your car's parts likely remain a mystery to you. One especially
little-known component goes by the name of the constant velocity
joints, or CV joints for short.
Your
car's CV joints play a vital role in transmitting force from your
transmission to your wheels. The more you know about how this
component works, the better you can identify any potential problems.
This article provides an excellent introduction to CV joints,
outlining three key pieces of information regarding this key
automotive component.
1.
CV Joints Deliver Torque to Your Wheels
CV
joints form a vital link between your transmission and your wheels.
All front-wheel vehicles contain four CV joints, one at either end of
each of the driveshafts running from your transmission to your
wheels. Four-wheel drive vehicles also commonly contain CV joints
which perform an identical function for the rear wheels.
A
CV joint ensures that torque from your transmission reaches the
wheels at a constant speed, regardless of the position of the wheels.
In other words, CV joints must maintain constant rotating force
during turns, while also accounting for the natural up and down
movement of your suspension.
Two
common types of CV joints exist: ball joints and tripod joints. Most
cars use a combination of the two joint types. The outer joint, which
connects the driveshaft to the wheel, uses a ball joint. The inner
joints, which connect the driveshaft to the transmission, usually use
tripod joints.
2.
Most CV Joint Problem Stem From Damaged Boots
In
order to ensure a smooth and full range of motion, a CV joint must
remain adequately lubricated with grease. To prevent lubricant from
washing away and/or becoming contaminated, all CV joints contain a
protective covering, commonly referred to as the boot.
Manufacturers
construct CV boots out of heavy-duty rubber. As a result, most CV
boots can enjoy lifespans of several thousand miles. Yet the lifespan
of a CV boot usually falls well short of the CV joint itself.
Over
time, a CV boot accumulates wear and tear as the result of its
exposed position on the underside of your car. That kind of wear
can eventually cause the CV boot to develop cracks and tears, which
in turn leads to a lack of lubrication.
A
significant amount of CV joint failures stem from damage to the CV
boot and the corresponding loss of lubricating grease. For that
reason, car owners must have their CV boots inspected regularly, and
replaced as necessary.
3.
Damaged CV Boots Lead to Recognizable Symptoms
Smart
car owners can often identify a damaged boot before it causes the CV
joint to fail entirely. One of the most common signs involves spots
of grease on the inner edges of your tires. Grease escapes from the
inside of the boot before the movement of the axle throws it outward
onto the tire.
You
may also notice that your car has begun to vibrate unusually while
your drive. Without adequate lubrication, the joint cannot move as
smoothly as it should. Odd clicking sounds may also accompany the
vibrations. Such sounds tend to grow more pronounced when your
vehicle turns or accelerates.
Ignoring
such symptoms for too long increases the risk of your CV joints
developing permanent forms of damage. Those who wait too long to seek
out professional assistance may end up having to replace their CV
joints entirely. For more information about how to get the most from
your CV joints, please contact the auto repair experts at Radial
Tire Service.
