What Determines Whether You Need To Repair An Axle In Your Vehicle

Axles link up with different components of your vehicle such that the smooth movement of the car depends on the condition of its axles, whether front or rear. To know whether you need to repair your axle, it is essential that you be keen and do a regular check on your vehicle. An axle repair might save you the cost of replacing it. That means you should conduct routine checks on your car to ensure you do not drive your vehicle with broken axles.

What causes axle damage?

Axles get damaged over common things you can easily control with careful driving. Driving means slowing down on potholes and bumps to reduce the impact on the axles and their components. It would be best to know some of the causes of axle damage to minimize damage.

Poor maintenance 

Your vehicle needs periodic maintenance to keep it in good shape, especially if you need to use it for a long time or resell it in the future. Poorly maintained axles may produce clunking, loud clanking, or clicking sounds. The vehicle will primarily make these sounds when you engage the gear. The car may also struggle with the power supply when you ignite and start moving. This problem occurs because of a damaged axle joint.

Hitting curbs, bumps, or potholes

Curbs, bumps, and potholes are sometimes unavoidable. Driving on bumps, potholes, and curbs would help slow down to protect your vehicle from damage. Driving at high speeds on damaged roads might cause your axle shaft to bend. Low speeds reduce extra stress on your car shocks, saving you the cost of maintenance.

Vehicle overload

Overloading the vehicle increases the weight on the axles. Every car has a predetermined weight that it can carry at a given point without much stress on the axles. If you overload the vehicle, you increase the chances of axle damage. So, when considering carrying some load on your car, it is essential to consider the vehicle’s recommended weight.

How do I know if my axle is damaged?

You should conduct periodic checks on your vehicle axles to ensure you catch any maintenance issues quickly. Knowing when to repair your axles is essential because it saves your cost and time in the long run. It would be best to consider repairing your vehicle when you hear clunking or clicking sounds when turning through corners or gears.

Other signs that will help you know your axle is damaged are when you notice grease leaking from underneath your vehicle or the tires misalign. Vehicle brakes may as well malfunction, or you might be unable to accelerate. Suppose you experience any of these signs, it is recommended that you consider an axle maintenance check.

What happens if I don’t fix my axle?

Failure to fix a lousy axle may result in braking issues, especially when your axle is extensively bent. The vehicle brake pads start to misalign. This misalignment causes the car to skid to a stop, and later, the brakes stop functioning. Therefore, fixing your axles early enough is essential to save you the headache of replacing the axle.