Have you ever found that your Volvo, somehow, seems to become inconsistent with how it drives originally or it starts making strange noises when you step on the gas or while taking a turn? These might be signs of a damaged drive axle. The drive axle is just as the name suggests an axle that is used in the car’s drivetrain to transfer the power produced by the engine to the wheels.
However, when it starts to fail, it is almost certain that your vehicle’s performance and safety will be affected. Let’s look at what the drive axle does, possible symptoms of a faulty drive axle, the causes of these problems, and how you can get your Volvo’s drive axle back to its optimum for a longer time.
What Is The Role Of a Drive Axle?
The drive axle is a bar connecting the transmission to the wheels so that they may rotate and move the car forward. It works in synchrony with other drivetrain elements like the differential as well as CV joints. In front-wheel drive Volvos, the drive axles are driving the front wheels while in all-wheel drive Volvos the drive axles direct the power to both the front and rear wheels. A healthy drive axle helps in the smooth acceleration of a vehicle and good handling of that vehicle. If it fails, the power transfer mechanisms of your Volvo will be adversely affected and this may lead to your vehicle developing a breakdown.
Why Do Drive Axle Issues Arise?
The CV boot helps protect the axle’s CV joints from contamination by either dirt, debris, and or moisture. At some point, it may split and this compromises the effectiveness of the grease while increasing the risk of joint failure. Continuous driving regardless of the road or even weather conditions can cause natural wearing out of the axle. Journeys that involve driving over small objects such as potholes, curbs, or other objects can lead to drive axle misalignment or in some cases even breakage.
Measures to Take When You Have a Damaged Drive Axle
- Inspect the Drive Axle: The problem can be identified by a detailed examination of the vehicle. Look for any signs of visible damage, grease leakage, and excessive tear and wear. If the CV boot is damaged and torn, then replacing it may stop the axle from incurring further damage.
- Repair or Replace the Axle: In the worst case, the axle may need to be replaced entirely due to the extent of damage. Although a minor problem like a torn CV boot can be repaired, major problems always call for the replacement of the axle.
- Align and Balance: After an axle has been worked on or replaced make sure that the wheels are straight and balanced. This assists in maintaining easy handling of your Volvo and also helps you get the best out of your tires.
- Test Drive: After all the repair work is done you should take your Volvo for a road test to be sure that the problem is fixed. One should listen to the sound, feel the vibrations, and observe the way your vehicle is handling.
- Professional Assistance: Replacing a drive axle is not a do-it-yourself kind of job. It needs special equipment and knowledge to do the work in the right manner so that it will not worsen. It is best to work with a professional repair shop that will ensure that your Volvo receives the attention it deserves.
Come To Import Car Center in Grapevine For Your Volvo Drive Axle Repairs
Import Car Center in 
Grapevine, TX features certified technicians who understand European cars and assure your Volvo gets excellent service and repair. All of our experienced technicians know the specific requirements of your model and will ensure customized approaches to achieve the best result.
When you choose us for your Volvo repairs, you can look forward to having highly trained technicians who have insight into how to identify and solve any issues with your drive axle. We value our clients’ satisfaction which is why we offer service without unnecessary complications, and with clear communication during and after the process. Aside from Volvo drivers in Grapevine, we also extend our reach to people from nearby cities like Southlake, Colleyville, Keller, and Westlake, TX. Schedule your Volvo inspection now!
* Volvo XC60 Car image credit goes to: teddyleung.