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Is CV joint same as CV Axle?

Is CV joint same as CV Axle?

Is a CV joint and axle the same thing? A CV joint is a joint in a drive axle (or at the end if it) which allows torque to be transmitted through a varying angle – for example, front wheel drive where the front wheels both steer and drive the car. An axle is a straight shaft, a CV joint is a JOINT.

How are CV joints used in front wheel drive cars?

In a front-wheel drive car, the axles are connected to the wheels with CV joints. These allow the axle and wheel to flex as the car drives (to account for turns, uneven surfaces, and more). However, the joint itself is a weak point in the system.

Can a bad CV joint cause axle failure?

A faulty CV joint results in axle failure, which makes your car not safe to drive due to the poor handling ability of your vehicle. Always remember that whenever you want to carry out a CV joint inspection on an FWD vehicle or a small van, you need to check the boots of all the CV joints.

How are the wheels connected to the transaxle?

Your CV joint has failed. The wheels of your front-drive vehicle are connected to the transaxle via axles that have constant-velocity-type universal joints at each end. There is an inner and outer joint on the left and right axles.

When do you need to replace a CV joint?

Inspect the boots for tears, cracks, damages, splits, or punctures. Replacing just your CV joints when your boots are bad will be of no use as faulty boots can quickly damage your joints. If you have a bad or completely faulty CV joint, you need to replace it immediately.

Where to look for CV joint boots on a car?

Or, when there is less room underneath the vehicle to maneuver, slide underneath one side of the vehicle immediately in front of or behind the front wheel to inspect one axle at a time. Inspect the CV Joint Boots. When you are in a position to see one or both CV axles, look closely at the CV boots located at each end of the axle.

Why is a CV axle used in front wheel drive?

CV (constant-velocity) axles, (also known as half-shafts), are used in front-wheel drive vehicles to transfer the engine s power from the transaxle to the two drive wheels. Auto Repair Safety When working on or around any vehicle injuries can and do occur.

What can I do about a damaged CV joint?

Once the CV joint is damaged, packing the joint with new grease and installing a new CV boot will not repair the already damaged CV joint. The only remedy for a damaged CV joint is replacing the CV axle.

Can a CV joint be replaced at a parts store?

You’d then replace it and the boot, lubricate the new and old joint with fresh grease, reinstall and go. Nowadays it’s difficult to find a CV joint for sale at a parts store. The industry has made it standard procedure to swap in a complete new or remanufactured axle, with the boots installed and prelubricated.

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Ruth Doyle