3 Signs Your Car's Drive Shaft Is Failing And Needs Replacing
If your car has started acting strange while driving it, especially while making turns, you may wonder what the problem could be. If so, look for the following three signs that your vehicle's drive shaft is starting to fail.
Unable To Make Sharp Turns
When you are trying to make a sharp turn at an intersection or park in a tight parking space, you may find that it is becoming increasingly difficult to move your steering wheel. If so, your drive shaft, the connection between the wheel and your tires, may have be broken inside.
However, another possible cause of this problem could be low power steering fluid. Check the level using the dipstick. If your levels are fine, the trouble is likely caused by a failing drive shaft.
Loud Clunking Noise While Turning The Wheel
Along with your inability to make turns, you may also start hearing a loud clunking sound whenever you turn the steering wheel. One possible alternate explanation for this problem is that one of your vehicle's tire rods is about to break. These rods attach to the drive shaft and give you control of your wheels.
If you start hearing these sounds, you should take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible. Whether the problem is the drive shaft or a breaking tire rod, your vehicle is not safe to drive. If either of these parts fail while you are driving down the road at high speeds, you would lose control of your car, possibly resulting in a serious accident.
Floorboards Vibrate Violently
Another sign that your drive shaft is about to fail is if you start noticing that your floorboards are violently shaking. In the beginning stages, you may only feel these vibrations while making a sharp turn. However, the closer the shaft gets to breaking down, you may feel them all the time.
One other possible explanation for strong vibrations is that your tires are no longer in alignment. Since they are no longer heading in the same direction, they start to bounce a little while you are driving. Eventually, the edges of your tires will wear down, making it necessary to replace them. An automotive specialist can help determine which one is the real cause.
If you notice one or more of the following symptoms, your car's drive shaft may be getting ready to break. You may want to take your vehicle to an automotive shop that offers drive shaft repair service to have them diagnose the problem and replace the part, if needed. Check with a shop like Spring Suspension & Alignment Services for more information.
