Did you know that the condition of your car axles and car struts impacts the steering and braking of your vehicle? Axles serve the purpose of transmitting power from the engine to make the wheels go round. They also carry the entire weight of your vehicle, plus passengers and cargo.
Unless damage occurs in several ways, most car axles can last well over 100,000 miles. Though, axles, car struts and shocks are subjected to a lot of stress from the constantly rotating and flexing while driving, which is compounded by rough bumpy roads. As the miles add up, axles and car struts or shocks will experience wear. When they fail, the effect is instant, compromising the safety of your vehicle.
So how do you know when your car axle is bad? Here are a few issues that you may start to experience:
- Clicking: This is the most common and noticeable symptom of a bad axle and is most often heard during sharp turns at lower speeds.
- Clunking: Most often heard when accelerating your speed.
- Excessive grease: You may see grease on the inside edge of the tire, steering and suspension components, or even on the ground.
- Vibration: If the shaft of the axle is damaged, you will feel a vibration which becomes more obvious as your speed increases.
If you start to notice any of the signs above, don’t delay in scheduling a checkup of your suspension system.
Are you wondering how do you know when your car axle is bad? Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about suspension systems and to make an appointment. Our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served car owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.
