Symptoms of a Bad Car Axel
Symptoms of a bad car axle include excessive vibrations during driving, strange noises like clicking or clunking when turning or accelerating, difficulty in steering, a noticeable wobble in the car tires, and grease leaks on the inside edge of tires or under the vehicle. If the axle is severely damaged, the vehicle may not move at all.Causes of a Bad Car Axel:
- Lack of lubrication: One of the primary reasons is due to lack of lubrication. Proper lubrication is necessary for the drive axle to function smoothly. Without it, the components can wear down over time, leading to a faulty drive axle.
- Excessive load: Drive axles can also go bad due to excessive load or stress. Overloading your vehicle, particularly with heavy weight over a long period, can cause considerable strain on the drive axle, causing it to wear down faster.
- Damages from the road: Another reason involves damages from road hazards. Items like potholes, rocks, or other debris can damage the drive axle. Furthermore, conditions such as water and humidity can lead to rust on the drive axle. If not addressed promptly, this can cause the drive axle to malfunction.
- Bad CV joints: These joints are part of the drive axle and their failure can affect the overall function of the drive axle.
- Normal wear and tear: Lastly, normal wear and tear can also lead to a bad drive axle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, an axle can be repaired depending on the extent and type of damage. Minor bends, cracks, or signs of wear and tear can typically be fixed by a professional mechanic. They can straighten it, rebalance it, or replace worn out components. However, if the axle is severely damaged or bent, replacement might be a more cost-effective and safer solution. Axle repair can involve several actions such as straightening, rebalancing, replacing seals or bearings, resurfacing where the brakes mount, or even welding. But, the safety and integrity of the vehicle must be the main priority. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with a professional mechanic or axle specialist to ensure a correct repair.
A car is not necessarily considered totaled if the axle is broken. The determination of a “total loss” depends on factors such as the car’s value before the damage, cost of repairs, and the insurance company’s policies. The insurance company may evaluate the repair costs relative to the car’s actual cash value (ACV). If the cost to repair the broken axle, including supplemental damages, is near or exceeds the car’s ACV, the insurance company may declare the car as a total loss.
Driving on a bad axle is not recommended as it poses significant safety risks. A damaged axle can affect the stability of your vehicle, can cause your vehicle to shake or vibrate, and can lead to further damage to other parts of your vehicle such as the wheels or transmission. It can potentially lead to your wheel breaking off while driving, resulting in a possible accident. In consequence, it is best to get your axle repaired or replaced as soon as you notice it is bad.
The weight capacity for each axle can vary depending on the type of vehicle and its specific design. Generally, for normal passenger vehicles, each axle can typically support around 1,000 to 1,500 kg. For larger vehicles like semi-trucks, each axle can carry up to approximately 9,100 kg. However, these are rough estimates and it’s recommended to check the vehicle’s specific load rating to be sure. Exceeding the axle weight capacity can be dangerous and lead to vehicle damage or accidents.