Possible Signs of Failing Vehicle Driveshafts

At Tom Wood’s Custom Drive Shafts, it’s our pleasure to serve as the top source for all driveshafts, driveshaft parts and driveshaft replacements. From common Jeep driveshaft products for the Jeep CJ and numerous other models to a variety of other brands and driveshaft components, we’re here to assist with any related needs you may have.

Naturally, some of our most common clients are those who are dealing with bad or failing driveshafts in their current vehicles, which can cause a variety of issues. If you’ve never experienced such an issue before, however, you may not be quite sure whether the signs coming from your vehicle signal a driveshaft failure or some other problem. Today’s blog will go over a few common symptoms that often indicate a driveshaft failure in case this happens to you.

Vibrations Under the Vehicle

In many cases, the first and most prominent sign of a failing driveshaft will be vibrations that begin to take place, originating on the underside of the vehicle. This vibration may begin relatively minor, but will often be intense in relatively short order.

This issue is often caused by the universal joint (also called a U-joint) in the driveshaft, or other moving parts, wearing out over time. This issue must be remedied quickly, as it can have a negative impact on several other drivetrain components and wear them down as well if nothing is done.

It is worthwhile to note that a tire imbalance (among other things) can also cause vibrations, though it is typically not possible to accurately diagnose the cause of a vibration based on symptoms alone.

Strange Sounds

You may hear a few different abnormal noises that signal problems with the driveshaft:

• Clunking: Often due to a worn-down U-joint that’s leading to loud noises.
• Squeaking: A noise you will usually hear at low speeds, squeaking coming from the car often means the U-joint needs to be lubricated.The cv center ball is the most common culprit here.
• Clicking or knocking: This often indicates an issue with the CV joint, which may have worn down.

Shuddering During Acceleration

Low speed shudders are a sign of a drive shaft related problem. Low speed shudders when accelerating are symptoms of a drive shaft geometry problem. Geometry related problems are typically at low speeds, up to about 40 mph and are worse on heavy throttle or on acceleration. If letting off the gas, pushing in the clutch, or shifting into neutral eliminates the noise then you surely have an angle problem. If your vehicle is experiencing either of these symptoms, give us a call. We can help you get to the root of dive shaft related shuddering problems. Having an experienced technician properly diagnose the issue should always be your first step.

For more on the signs your driveshaft might be failing, or to learn about any of our custom driveshaft products, speak to the staff at Tom Wood’s Custom Drive Shafts today.