A drive shaft is a critical part of your car that helps transfer power from the engine to the wheels. If it breaks, it can cause some serious damage to your car – not to mention leave you stranded on the side of the road. So what happens if your drive shaft breaks while driving? Keep reading to find out.
What Is A Drive Shaft?
A drive shaft is a long, rotating piece of metal that connects the engine to the wheels. It helps transfer power from the engine to the wheels so that your car can move.
If the drive shaft breaks while you’re driving, it can cause some serious problems. The most obvious problem is that your car will stop moving. Even if you’re driving at a slow speed, a broken drive shaft can cause your car to come to a complete stop.
Another problem that can occur is that the broken drive shaft can become entangled in the wheels. This can cause the wheels to lock up and skid, which can lead to an accident.
If you think your drive shaft has broken, it’s important to get off the road as soon as possible. Turn on your hazard lights and slowly move your car to the side of the road. Once you’re safely off the road, call a tow truck to take your car to a nearby mechanical garage.
Why Do They Wrong?
There are a few different reasons why drive shafts can break. One of the most common reasons is because of a faulty or damaged universal joint. Universal joints are located where the drive shaft meets the wheels, and they help keep the drive shaft in alignment as it rotates. Over time, universal joints can become worn out and damaged, which can cause the drive shaft to break.
Another common reason for a broken drive shaft is because of damaged or worn-out CV joints. CV joints are located at either end of the drive shaft and help transfer power from the engine to the wheels. Like universal joints, they can become worn out over time and cause the drive shaft to break.
Common Bad Drive Shaft Symptoms
There are a few different symptoms that can indicate that your drive shaft is going bad.
1) Vibrations
If you are driving your vehicle and feel severe vibrations under the vehicle, there may be a problem with your driveshaft. This is often the first symptom people see of a driveshaft problem.
Vibration may be caused by worn drive shaft bushings. These bushings usually prevent drive shaft vibration in the first place.
Vibration increases if the problem is not resolved sooner. It gets so bad that your passengers can feel it too. Worst of all, other powertrain components may also be affected and damaged.
Be aware that vibrations that increase with speed may mean that your tires need to be balanced. This should be done regularly. Check your owner’s manual for manufacturer’s recommendations.
2) Clunking Noise
If you hear a clunking noise when you put your car in drive or reverse, it may be coming from your drive shaft. This is often caused by worn U-joints or CV joints. As these parts wear out, they can become loose and make noise.
3) Squeaking Noise
A squeaking noise may also be coming from your drive shaft. This is often caused by faulty or damaged bearings. The bearings help the drive shaft rotate smoothly. When they become worn out, they can make noise.
4) Universal Joint Movement
If you see the universal joint moving up and down, it means that it is worn out. This can cause the drive shaft to break.
5) Turning Problems
If you have trouble turning your car, it may be because of a problem with your drive shaft. If the drive shaft is not properly aligned, it can cause your car to bind when you turn. This can make it difficult to turn your car, especially at low speeds.
What Happens if My Drive Shaft Breaks While Driving?
If your drive shaft breaks while you are driving, it can be very dangerous. The drive shaft is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. Without it, your car will not be able to move.
Intensive Car Vibration
The first thing you will notice is an intense vibration coming from under your car. This is because the drive shaft is no longer connected to the wheels and is spinning freely.
Differential Replacement Needed
If the drive shaft breaks while you are driving, it can damage the differential. The differential is responsible for distributing power to the wheels. If it is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
Broken Knuckle
The drive shaft is also responsible for keeping the wheels in alignment. If it breaks, the wheels can become misaligned. This can damage the suspension and cause the knuckles to break.
Vibration in Car Shaft
The drive shaft is also responsible for keeping the wheels in alignment. If it breaks, the wheels can become misaligned. This can damage the suspension and cause the knuckles to break.
Accidents
If your drive shaft breaks while you are driving, it can be very dangerous. You may lose control of your car and have an accident.
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How to Prevent Drive Shaft Problems
Regular Maintenance
The best way to prevent drive shaft problems is to have regular maintenance done on your car. This includes having the drive shaft inspected and serviced as needed.
Avoid Hitting Curbs
Hitting curbs can damage your drive shaft. Be careful when driving over curbs and avoid hitting them if possible.
Drive on Smooth Roads
Driving on rough roads can damage your drive shaft. Try to avoid driving on roads that are in poor condition.
Use the Right Tires
Using the wrong tires can damage your drive shaft. Be sure to use the correct tires for your car.
Don’t Overload Your Car
Overloading your car can damage the drive shaft. Be sure not to exceed the weight limit for your car.
Drive Shaft Replacement Cost
The cost to replace a drive shaft will vary depending on the make and model of your car. It can range from $500 to $1500. The labor costs will be between $200 and $400. The parts will cost between $300 and $1100. (This is an estimate from Midas).
If you notice any of these problems with your drive shaft, be sure to have it checked out by a mechanic. Drive shaft problems can be dangerous and should be fixed as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if my front drive shaft breaks while driving?
If your front drive shaft breaks while driving, it can be very dangerous. The front drive shaft is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. Without it, your car will not be able to move.
Can you still drive without a drive shaft?
No, you cannot drive without a drive shaft. The drive shaft is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. Without it, your car will not be able to move.
What are the symptoms of a broken drive shaft?
How much does it cost to replace a drive shaft?
The cost to replace a drive shaft will vary depending on the make and model of your car. It can range from $500 to $1500. The labor costs will be between $200 and $400. The parts will cost between $300 and $1100.
How do I know if my drive shaft broke?
If you notice an intense vibration coming from under your car, it may be because the drive shaft is no longer connected to the wheels and is spinning freely. You may also notice that the car is not able to move.
Conclusion
Answer The Question hope this blog helped to alleviate some of your worries and concerns about what would happen if your drive shaft were to break while driving. While it is certainly a scary thought, the reality is that it’s not as catastrophic as you may have initially feared. So next time you’re out on the open road, take a deep breath and enjoy the ride – knowing that your trusty old car has got your back (and front)!
