How to tell if your prop shaft is deteriorating

Your vehicle’s propeller shaft (also known as prop shaft or drive shaft) transmits power generated by the engine to the front and rear of your vehicle to propel it. You could have one or more, subject to the car is a front- or rear-wheel drive, or a four-wheel drive vehicle. Prop shafts normally don’t fail suddenly, instead, they weaken over time, which is why it’s essential to know what to notice if your prop shaft ever becomes faulty. Being attentive to these telling signs of prop shaft problems will ensure you consult your auto repair shop to avoid expensive repairs or an unfortunate accident.

Unusual noises

Comparable to determining whether your brakes need repairs or not, strange noises can alert you in on issues you might be having with your prop shaft. Most times, this could be clunking or rattling noises when the vehicle is moving. You might even hear a squeaking sound whenever your car accelerates and decelerates, but wanes as you travel at steadier and higher speeds, like on the freeway. Noises are typically a clear sign that something is amiss with your vehicle. It’s easy to overlook them if they are sporadic, all this does is cause more damage to your vehicle and becomes more costly than if you addressed the problem when you first notice it.

Intense vibrations

Although some vibrations are normal while you’re driving, however, if your prop shaft is starting to fail, you might notice more intense shuddering and rattling, particularly within the floorboards. These kinds of vibrations will be more apparent when accelerating or travelling at higher speeds. Although intense vibrations while accelerating can also be an indication of a faulty tire, issues with the prop shaft are felt while the car is moving.

Difficulty turning

A faulty drive shaft will frequently inhibit the tires from turning properly, which you’ll most probably notice as you try to manoeuvre corners. You might feel a slight resistance in your wheels as you try to turn, or experience trouble parking, as you attempt to turn into tight, narrow spaces, or around other cars.

Noticeable deterioration

At either end of the prop shaft, there are universal joints or C.V. joints. C.V. joints can point issues with your prop shaft out if you see rust around them or see that they’re worn out or damaged. They might even be slack or simply won’t revolve, and any additional movement can cause further negative effects on your prop shaft.

Should you experience any of these of issues with your vehicle, it’s vital that you visit your local transmission repair facility – Mayfair Gearbox - ASAP to examine whether or not your prop shaft requires replacement or overhaul before further damage occurs. Mayfair Gearbox focuses in heavy commercial, light duty truck, and car remanufactured fleet gearboxes and diffs for all kinds of fleets. Mayfair Gearbox is dedicated to keeping you and your vehicle safe on the roads.