The Top 3 Bad U-joint Symptoms: Is It Time For A Replacement?
A single component is commonly overlooked in rear-wheel-drive, four-wheel-drive, and all-wheel-drive cars. In most cases, it’s a relatively inexpensive part, but the fact that it’s affordable doesn’t mean it’s not important.
The U-joint connects your vehicle’s driveshaft with the differential and, in some cases, to the transmission. A bad U-joint can lead to major damage if not replaced in time, which is why it’s best to know the most common symptoms.
In this article, we’ll cover the top three symptoms to look for and what to expect regarding the universal joint replacement cost.
What is a U-Joint?
A U-joint, short for universal joint, is a handy component in many vehicles, especially in the drivetrain. Think of it as a flexible connector that allows parts to move and rotate at different angles while transmitting power efficiently.
What Exactly Is a U-Joint?
At its core, a U-joint is a mechanical connection between two shafts that aren't perfectly aligned. It’s particularly common in the driveshaft of a rear-wheel-drive vehicle.
How Does It Work?
The basic design of a U-joint is clever. It’s made up of a cross-shaped piece (often called the "spider") with four arms. Each arm fits into a yoke (basically a fork-shaped part) attached to the ends of the two shafts that need to be connected.
What Causes U-joint Failure?
As we all know, U-joints are exposed to unbelievable amounts of stress, especially in powerful vehicles. Although they’re made to last as long as the car, regular wear and tear and lack of maintenance ultimately lead to U-joint failure.
Most Common Bad U-joint Symptoms
- Unusual sounds
- Vibration while driving
- Clunking noise
Unusual Sounds
When it comes to unusual sounds, the most common bad U-joint symptom is squeaking.
Vibration While Driving
Unlike squeaking noises, vibrations are usually felt at highway speeds.
Clunking Noise
A distinctive clunking noise commonly occurs when switching gears between forward and reverse.
How To Inspect U-joints
If you suspect that the universal joints on your car might be on their last legs, it doesn’t mean you need to run to your mechanic. You can do a few things to verify your suspicion and diagnose the issue by yourself.
- Secure the car on jack stands on a level surface.
- Locate the U-joints.
- Inspect the U-joints visually for damage, corrosion, or grease leaks.
- Check the U-joints for play.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s clear that you’ll need to replace the U-joint. However, it’s best to let a professional determine what caused the U-joint to fail. You only keep repair costs to a minimum by knowing what caused the U-joint to fail.
What’s The Universal Joint Replacement Cost?
U-joints can be replaced relatively simply; however, a couple of tools are required for the job.
If you go to your trusted mechanic to replace a bad U-joint, you can expect the U-joint replacement cost to be anywhere from $250 to $500.
At PartsHawk, we carry a wide selection of U-joints for various vehicle makes and models. The best thing is that you can easily find the correct part by filtering your vehicle's year, make, and model or by selecting the preferred brand. This makes it incredibly easy to find the parts you need from trusted brands that will last.
