Toyota cars are beautiful to drive but when its drive axle starts to degenerate, it becomes a driver’s worst nightmare. The drive axle is a bar or shaft that runs from the transmission to the wheels, in other words, it is a connecting rod. Its main role is to transmit force and rotational power from the engine to the wheels so that your Toyota is empowered to move forward or backward.
Toyota vehicles based on the model may either have front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive. The type of drivetrain defines the number of axles as well as their functions within the vehicle. When the drive axle is damaged, it halts the power transmission and results in poor performance.
Signs That Your Toyota’s Drive Axle Is Failing
- Clunking Noises: Any time a driver hears any sort of clunking, clicking, or popping while they are on the road, particularly during a turn, chances are very high that they have a failing drive axle on their hands. This noise is usually as a result of worn-out constant velocity (CV) joints which are very vital in the drive axle.
- Excessive Vibrations: If you feel odd vibrations through the steering wheel or beneath the car then it can be a sign of a bad drive axle. These vibrations may increase with the speed or during acceleration, deceleration or while cornering.
- Grease Leaks: The CV joint itself is housed in a rubber boot that contains grease. If the boot gets some cracks or tears, the grease between the boot and the joint can seep out and the joint becomes vulnerable to the abrasive effects of dirt and dust. Look for grease spots around the tires of your Toyota.
- Difficulty Turning: A bad drive axle will cause the steering to become more difficult especially when turning at sharp corners. This problem arises because the CV joints are not in good condition and this restricts movement of your wheel.
How To Fix A Failing Drive Axle
- Check for Loose Connections: The problem of failing axles often stems from loose bolts or clamps that are supposed to secure the axle on the vehicle. Secure any loose contact points but do not over torque them so you do not inflict further damage on the connection points.
- Replace Damaged CV Joints or Boots: When the CV joints or boots are bad, they have to be replaced immediately. In this process, the axle is always pulled out, its joint is washed and new boots or joints are put in.
- Replace the Entire Axle (If Necessary): If the situation with the drive axle is critical, then the optimum way of solving this problem will be the replacement of the entire axle. This is particularly so if the car’s mileage is high or if several parts are faulty in the car.
- Test the Vehicle: After the car has been repaired you need to take the car for a spin to determine if the issue was fixed or not. Make sure you listen for sounds and evaluate the system’s efficiency.
Why Should You Leave Your Vehicle To Professional Mechanics?
Some Toyota lovers may wish to do the repair work of the drive axle on their own, however, this is not advisable because it is very time-consuming and requires a lot of concentration and precision. Going to the right technician means that the problem will be well-diagnosed and dealt with in the right manner. Professional repairs also help you to save time and eliminate any possibility of further damage.
Entrust Your Asian Cars To The Experts At Kruse Lucas Imports
If your Toyota is showing signs of drive axle failure, Kruse Lucas Imports in Modesto, CA, is here to help. We have well-experienced mechanics who can take care of Toyota cars and they are capable of determining and fixing drive axles. Every service we offer includes the use of advanced technology, and genuine auto spare parts to ensure your vehicle’s optimal performance.
At Kruse Lucas Imports, we will ensure that your Toyota remains safe, reliable, and in good shape to be on the roads. We are glad to be the repair shop of choice in Modesto, and the surrounding areas of Oakdale, Ripon, Manteca, and Turlock, CA. Do not let a minor problem turn into a massive one – contact us now and let us take care of the rest for you!