How do I know if my CV axle is bad on my Subaru Forester?
The CV (constant velocity) axle is a critical component of your Subaru Forester's drivetrain, responsible for transferring power from the transmission to the wheels. A failing CV axle can lead to serious issues if not addressed promptly. In this article, we’ll explore the common signs of a bad CV axle and what you should do if you suspect yours is failing.
What Is a CV Axle and Why Is It Important?
The CV axle is designed to maintain consistent power delivery to your wheels, even as they turn and move up and down with the suspension. This is especially important in vehicles like the Subaru Forester, which often encounters uneven terrain. A damaged CV axle can compromise your vehicle's performance and safety, making it essential to recognize the warning signs early.
Signs Your CV Axle Might Be Failing
Here are some of the most common symptoms that indicate your CV axle may be bad:
- Clicking or popping noises when turning: One of the most noticeable signs of a failing CV axle is a clicking or popping sound, especially when making sharp turns. This noise is caused by worn-out CV joints.
- Grease on the inside of your wheels: If you notice grease splattered on the inside of your wheels or around the CV axle boot, it could mean the boot is torn, allowing grease to escape and contaminants to enter.
- Vibrations while driving: A damaged CV axle can cause vibrations that you’ll feel through the steering wheel or the floor of the vehicle, particularly at higher speeds.
- Knocking sounds: A bad CV axle may produce knocking sounds, especially during acceleration or deceleration.
- Difficulty driving: In severe cases, a failing CV axle can make it difficult to drive, as the axle may no longer effectively transfer power to the wheels.
What Causes CV Axle Failure?
Several factors can contribute to CV axle failure, including:
- Wear and tear: Over time, the CV joints and boots can wear out due to regular use.
- Exposure to the elements: Dirt, water, and road debris can damage the CV boot, leading to joint failure.
- Aggressive driving: Sudden acceleration, hard turns, or off-road driving can put extra stress on the CV axle.
What Should You Do If You Suspect a Bad CV Axle?
If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s important to address the issue promptly. Here’s what you should do:
- Inspect the CV axle: Look for visible damage, such as a torn boot or leaking grease.
- Schedule a professional inspection: Bring your Subaru Forester to a trusted auto repair shop for a thorough diagnosis. At Kevin's Autos, we specialize in drivetrain repairs and can quickly identify and fix CV axle issues.
- Replace the CV axle if necessary: If the CV axle is beyond repair, it will need to be replaced to ensure your vehicle operates safely and efficiently.
Conclusion
Recognizing the signs of a bad CV axle on your Subaru Forester can save you from costly repairs and potential safety hazards. If you suspect an issue, don’t wait—contact a professional mechanic to diagnose and resolve the problem. At Kevin's Autos, we have years of experience in car maintenance and repair, and we’re here to help keep your vehicle running smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hours does it take to replace a CV axle?
about 1.5 to 3 hours
Replacing a single axle usually takes about 1.5 to 3 hours, so replacing all four others can take up to 12 hours, which increases the cost if you factor in both parts and labor. However, replacing all four axles is optional. You can replace just one axle if it is all that is required.
How do I know if my Subaru CV axle is bad?
The best way to diagnose a bad CV joint/axle is to drive very slowly and turn hard right and turn hard left. If there is clicking during those hard right and left turns but it goes away when going straight, the CV axle is bad.
Can you still drive with a bad CV axle?
Driving with a broken CV axle is risky and should be avoided. It can lead to further damage and loss of control. If you must, limit it to a short distance at low speeds. For reliable lighting, choose Glo LED!
How to test a CV axle by hand?
To check for excess play in the CV axle, hold onto the axle with two hands and try to move it up and down and side to side. If there is any movement, it could indicate a worn-out joint or a problem with the front wheel bearing.
How to tell the difference between a bad wheel bearing and a bad CV joint?
To tell the difference between a bad wheel bearing and a bad CV joint, listen to the noise. If you hear a grinding, growling, or rumbling noise coming from the affected wheel, it's a bad wheel bearing. If you hear a clicking noise coming from the affected wheel when turning, it's a bad CV joint.
Are CV joints covered under a Subaru warranty?
And unlike other plans, Subaru's does not exclude wear and tear of covered components (e.g., low engine compression, or excess oil consumption due to worn engine components); consequential damage to other components (e.g., brake caliper repairs requiring new brake pads); struts and constant-velocity joints (even torn ...
What are the symptoms of a failing CV axle?
Some common symptoms of CV axle failure include:
- Clicking Sound When Turning.
- Clunking Sound on Acceleration or Deceleration.
- Grease Leakage.
- Vibration While Driving.
- Perform a Visual Inspection.
- Perform a Test Drive.
- Cost-effectiveness.
- Time and Labor Savings.
Can a CV axle go bad without leaking?
Yes. When CV axles start to wear out, the process is gradual. They may start to make noise or cause a pulsed steering or clicking at slow, maneuvering speeds. You can often continue for a while if you do not make a sharp turn movements.
What is the life expectancy of a CV axle?
While CV axles typically have a long lifespan with some lasting more than 100,000 miles, they can fail for a few different reasons.
How do I know when my CV axle needs replacing?
3 Signs The CV Axles On Your Vehicle Need To Be Replaced
- Vehicle Will Not Move. Since the CV axles deliver engine power to the front wheels, If one of your CV axles has utterly and completely failed, the vehicle might not move at all.
- Grease On Inside Edge Of Front Tires.
- Rhythmic Clicking Noise When Turning.
