Axles are central components of your vehicle's drivetrain, serving two critical functions: supporting the weight of the vehicle and transferring power from the engine to the wheels.
Power Transfer
In a front-wheel-drive vehicle, the transaxle sends power to the front wheels via CV (Constant Velocity) axles. These specialized axles contain flexible joints that allow the wheels to turn left and right for steering, and move up and down with the suspension, while continuously delivering power without binding.
In a rear-wheel-drive vehicle, a driveshaft connects the transmission to the rear differential, which then splits the power to the rear wheels via solid rear axles.
When Axles Fail
The most common axle failure occurs in front-wheel-drive CV axles when the protective rubber boot tears, allowing grease to escape and dirt to enter. This rapidly destroys the joint, resulting in a loud clicking or popping noise when turning tight corners. If ignored, the axle can break entirely, leaving the vehicle undrivable.
Trust Metro Transmission & Auto Repair for expert axle inspection and replacement.
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Metro Transmission & Auto Repair is here to help drivers in Marion, Cedar Rapids, and surrounding communities with expert diagnostics and reliable repairs.