If your car makes a clicking noise while turning, there is a good chance your CV axle may be wearing out. At Tim’s Quality Car Care, this is one of the more common drivetrain concerns we diagnose, especially on vehicles that spend years driving over potholes, rough roads, and uneven streets throughout the New Orleans area.
Your vehicle’s CV axles, also known as Constant Velocity Axles, transfer power from the transmission to the wheels while allowing the suspension and steering system to move freely. CV joints are designed to flex as the wheels turn and move up and down with the road. These joints are protected by rubber CV boots filled with grease that keeps the joint lubricated and operating smoothly.
Over time, CV boots can crack or tear due to age, road debris, heat, or rough driving conditions. Once the boot is damaged, grease begins leaking out and moisture and dirt begin working their way into the joint. In New Orleans, humidity and water exposure can speed this process up even more. As the CV joint loses lubrication and becomes contaminated, internal wear develops and the joint starts making noise.
The most common symptom of a failing CV axle is a clicking or popping sound while turning, especially during low speed turns or while accelerating through a corner. Many drivers first notice the sound pulling into parking lots or making tight turns around the city. In more advanced cases, the vehicle may also develop vibrations during acceleration or clunking noises while shifting between drive and reverse.
A failing CV axle should not be ignored. Continued driving with a worn joint can eventually lead to complete failure of the axle. If that happens, the vehicle may lose the ability to transfer power to the wheels properly and could leave you stranded. Catching the problem early is usually much less expensive than waiting until more damage occurs.
At Tim’s Quality Car Care in New Orleans, we inspect CV axles, suspension components, and steering systems as part of our Digital Vehicle Inspection process. We take clear pictures of any leaks, damaged boots, or worn components and provide detailed notes and condition ratings. The complete inspection is shared with our clients by text and email so you can clearly understand what your vehicle needs and why.
