What element of a front-wheel-drive car is the absolute record-holder in the number of breakages? It is really difficult to say, but the constant velocity joint or just the CVT could vie for a place in the top three. The problem is that there is no strict regulation for this part replacement. Therefore, the driver at the moment of breakage most often appears on his own with an unpleasant fact.
How the car moves
If moving the car from a place occurs with the characteristic jerks similar to pushing, it directly points out that it is time to check joints. It is possible that the problem is in them. This happens because of clogging of grooves with waste products. If the problem is not in CV joints, it is already necessary to check the engine and clutch.
Sounds and lack thereof
Not too obvious sign, which can also indicate the presence of problems with the CV joint. During driving, including turning the steering wheel, the car does not make any extraneous sounds. However, if you try to rotate the wheels while standing still, strange noises, cracking and crunching may be heard from the wheels. Most often 2-3, rarely 4 clicks are heard when you try to turn the steering wheel to the maximum.
Noises at the moment of moving off
Perhaps the most well-known sign of problems with the joint is known to every motorist – it is the appearance of crunching and clicking when trying to move off in a well laden car. Especially distinct extraneous noises show themselves when trying at this point and twist the steering wheel.
Presence of grease
You can find out about a broken CV joint not only by characteristic noises, but also by visual inspection. If grease suddenly begins to appear along the wheel rim or on the suspension elements, spreading out as if from the center of the wheel, it is a eloquent sign that the CVA already needs an ambulance.
Vibrations
If easily recognizable vibrations appear when speeding, there is every reason to believe that the internal CV joints have already worked their way through. They may also occur while driving over bumps and irregularities, when trying to go up a hill (especially with a good load) or to descend slowly from a steep hill braking purposefully.