Hearing a clicking noise from your car, especially while turning, can be concerning. For many drivers, the first thought jumps to the axles. But can you actually repair a clicking axle, or is replacement the only option? Let’s delve into the world of axles, specifically focusing on Constant Velocity (CV) axles, and understand what those clicks might mean for your vehicle and your wallet.
Clicking sounds emanating from the wheel area are often indicative of issues within the CV axle assembly. These axles are crucial for transferring power from your transmission to the wheels, especially in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive vehicles. The clicking noise is frequently associated with the outer CV joint, which handles the steering angle and is therefore more prone to wear and tear, particularly when the protective boot is damaged. When this boot, typically made of rubber or thermoplastic, tears or cracks, it allows the lubricating grease to escape and contaminants like dirt, debris, and moisture to enter. This leads to increased friction and wear within the joint, eventually causing the tell-tale clicking sound, most noticeable during turns.
However, the clicking sound isn’t always a death sentence for your axle. In some cases, particularly with inner CV joints, the issue might be as simple as a lack of grease. If caught early enough, especially if the vibration accompanies the noise rather than a distinct clicking, repacking the inner joint with fresh grease might resolve the problem. This involves disassembling the joint, cleaning out the old, contaminated grease, and packing it with new, high-quality CV joint grease. This can be a more cost-effective solution than full replacement, especially for addressing inner joint noise in certain situations.
When considering repair versus replacement, the extent of the damage and the type of axle are crucial factors. While regreasing might work for inner joints with grease depletion, outer joints with significant wear or damage to the internal components usually necessitate replacement. For older vehicles, or those where budget is a significant concern, exploring used or remanufactured axles can be a viable alternative to brand new parts. Websites specializing in used auto parts can offer axles at a reduced cost, often still in good working condition, though it’s wise to be aware of potential wear due to age. For example, for some Subaru models, used axles from slightly newer models can be compatible and offer improved boot design for longer lifespan.
It’s also important to consider the source of replacement axles. While aftermarket axles are readily available, their quality can be inconsistent. Experiences shared by mechanics and car enthusiasts suggest that some aftermarket axles may fail prematurely, even right out of the box. Therefore, when opting for replacement, especially if not using OEM parts, researching reputable brands and reading reviews is advisable.
In conclusion, while “repairing” a clicking axle in the sense of fixing damaged internal components is generally not feasible, addressing the issue might be possible through grease repacking in specific inner joint cases. However, for most clicking outer CV joints and when wear is evident, replacement is the more reliable solution. Exploring quality used or remanufactured axles can offer a balance between cost-effectiveness and durability. Ignoring a clicking axle is not recommended as the problem will likely worsen, potentially leading to more significant issues and eventual axle failure. Prompt inspection and addressing the clicking noise can save you from more costly repairs down the road.
