4 Signs of a Bad CV Joint (And Its Replacement Cost)

Today’s vehicles are finely tuned pieces of equipment, featuring a wide array of individual components, all of which must function flawlessly to facilitate proper operation. If any one of these components were to fail, a number of serious mechanical issues could arise. 

One such component of value, which must function flawlessly is the CV (constant velocity) axle. Front wheel drive vehicles rely upon a pair of CV axles to relay power from the unit’s transmission to each independent drive wheel. As such, it is imperative for a vehicle’s CV axles to be maintained in optimal condition.

Unfortunately, CV axles are prone to mechanical failure on occasion, especially when their joints become dry and lack sufficient lubrication. When these joints begin to fail, a number of troubling symptoms often arise, causing ample concern among most motorists.

Read on to learn more about the signs and symptoms of a bad CV joint, as well as how to address such a situation, should it arise in the future.

See Also – 7 Signs You Have a Transmission Problem

What is a CV Joint?

A CV (constant velocity) joint, also known as a half-shaft, is responsible for distributing power from a vehicle’s transmission to its drive wheels in FWD vehicles. A FWD vehicle features 2 independent CV shafts, one of which is located between the vehicle’s transmission, and each front wheel.

The true value of a CV joint comes in its ability to flex and articulate with the upward and downward movement of a vehicle’s suspension. This is achieved, all while continuing to provide power to each drive wheel. 

In order for this level of articulation to be maintained, each individual joint must remain greased and free of contaminants.

This is achieved through the use of a specialized rubber boot, which features an accordion-style diaphragm. Grease is maintained within this boot at all times, assuming that the boot itself is kept in optimal shape.

Bad CV Joint Symptoms

A bad or faulty CV joint is often accompanied by one or more secondary symptoms. Learning to recognize these symptoms can prove imperative when attempting to diagnose the issue at hand, thereby returning a vehicle to service as quickly as possible.

The following are several of the most common symptoms associated with CV joint failure.

Read Also – Symptoms of a Bad Control Arm

1. Unusual Clicking Noises

One common symptom associated with a bad CV joint is a clicking noise that is most pronounced when cornering.

This sound only tends to increase with intensity over time, becoming extremely evident to those within close proximity to the affected vehicle at certain times.

2. Vibration At Speed

In certain cases, a compromised CV joint can cause noticeable vibration when cruising at speeds in excess of 40 MPH. While this particular symptom is not evident in every case, it does tend to be prominent enough to warrant one’s attention.

3. Displaced Grease

Displaced grease within a vehicle’s wheel well and undercarriage area is yet another sign of CV joint issues. In such instances, this “slinging” of grease indicates a broken CV boot.

If caught early enough, the damaged boot in question can simply be replaced. However, continued vehicle operation without replacement will eventually cause damage to the affected CV joint.

4. Knocking Noise When Turning

Much like the clicking mentioned above, a severely worn CV joint can actually present a knocking noise of sorts, which becomes quite obvious to motorists.

Again, this noise will only get worse with each passing mile and should be addressed as soon as possible.

Read Also – 4 Symptoms of a Bad Tie Rod

What Causes CV Joint Failure/Damage?

The most common cause of CV joint failure is the deterioration of a corresponding boot that encompasses such a joint. When a CV joint boot becomes damaged, all grease held within will quickly dissipate. This, in turn, causes CV joint dryness and binding.

Additionally, a busted CV joint boot will allow contaminants, such as road debris, to come into contact with the joint itself.

CV joints are also prone to accelerated wear when placed at extreme angles. This is most commonly observed in the case of lifted vehicles, which typically feature aftermarket suspension components.

How to Tell Which CV Joint Is Bad

There are a couple of ways that one can determine which of their vehicle’s CV joints is bad. The first is through careful visual inspection.

One should carefully inspect for any damage to inner or outer boots on either CV axle. Likewise, it is also important to check for signs of fresh grease that has been slung from any of these boots.

Alternatively, a vehicle’s front end can be lifted and supported to allow one to inspect for excess play in individual CV joints. With a vehicle elevated, each front tire can be spun while attempting to twist the CV shaft in the opposite direction by hand.

Excess free-play should be felt in any affected CV joint.

Bad CV Joint vs Bad Wheel Bearing

The most common difference between a bad wheel bearing and a bad CV joint is the type of noise that each mechanical failure produces.

In most cases, a worn or faulty wheel bearing will make a roaring or growling noise, while a damaged CV joint will produce a noise that is best described as a clicking of sorts. Additionally, the noise produced by a wheel bearing failure is more commonly heard from within the cabin of a vehicle.

In certain cases, a faulty CV joint can actually cause a vehicle’s wheel to shake or vibrate, especially at speeds exceeding 40 MPH. On the contrary, a bad wheel bearing will seldom cause the vibration of this particular type.

CV Joint Replacement Cost

The cost associated with replacing a faulty CV joint often varies from one particular vehicle to the next. This is due to differences in billable labor time that is applied to a repair of this type, on a case-by-case basis.

Actual CV joint replacement cost also tends to vary based upon a shop’s hourly labor rate, and the cost of the parts associated with completing such a job.

Nonetheless, the cost of CV joint replacement generally falls within a price range of $200-$800, with somewhere in the ballpark of $450 serving as a good average figure. As a general rule, the price of labor accounts for a far great amount of these costs than the price of parts/

Should CV Joints Be Replaced In Pairs?

It is always a good idea to replace CV joints or CV axles in pairs. This is due to the fact that under most circumstances, each of a vehicle’s two axles will incur approximately the same amount of wear within a given time frame.

While it is true that one specific axle might show obvious signs of impending failure first, one can bet good money that the opposing axle is not far behind.

Replacing both of a vehicle’s CV joints in tandem can save a significant amount of time and money, in the event that a non-replaced axle or joint were to fail within weeks to months following the replacement of the opposing unit.

This practice will eliminate any unnecessary vehicle downtime and will keep you on the road.

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Steve Cooper

Owner at Auto Trends Magazine

Steve is the owner of Auto Trends Magazine and a former ASE Certified Technician who holds a degree in automotive service technology from Weber State. When he's not searching for a 10mm socket in his garage, he enjoys a good BBQ with family and friends.

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