Common Causes And Symptoms Of Driveshaft Noise When Accelerating? new for 2022

Many drivers experience driveshaft noise when accelerating. While the cause of this noise can vary, there are a number of common causes that should be investigated in order to find a solution.

Drivers often feel frustrated and helpless when they experience driveshaft noise. This problem can be difficult to diagnose and even more difficult to fix.

Common Causes And Symptoms Of Driveshaft Noise When Accelerating? In this post, we provide you the common causes and symptoms of this problem, as well as step-by-step instructions on how to fix it.

What is Driveshaft?

The driveshaft is a cylindrical shaft that transmits torque from the engine to the wheels. They are most often found in rear-wheel drive automobiles and connect the back of the transmission to the driveshaft. The output shaft of the transmission spins the driveshaft, which then rotates the differential ring gear to turn the wheels.

Because driveshafts rotate at such high speeds and torque values, they need to be very precisely balanced and weighted. If there is any sort of issue with the driveshaft, it can affect the drivability of the vehicle. Usually, a problem with the driveshaft will produce 4 symptoms that alert the driver of an issue that should be addressed.

Common Causes Of Driveshaft Noise When Accelerating

Defective U-Joints

The rods under your vehicle are attached by components called universal joints, which allows the drive shaft to rotate and move the differentials. These essential elements are colloquially known as “U-joints.”

Over time, the universal joints on your car will become excessively worn and eventually fail. This is when you’ll start to hear strange noises like scraping or rattling. The only way to fix this problem is by replacing the bad U-joint.

Drive Shaft Is Loose

If your failing universal joints have progressed to the point that they’re making noises, the drive shaft will also come loose and displace beneath the vehicle. This will add to the previous one’s noise level.

When you drive with your window down, the whine from the brakes and steering wheel will get louder each time. If you do not fix this problem soon, the drive shaft will eventually scrape against the road’s pavement. Meanwhile, your differentials and wheels will not receive enough rotational energy to spin and propel the vehicle forward.

Bearing Failure

The drive shaft is powered by a three-gear system (1st gear, 2nd gear, 3rd gear), which includes rubber bearings for smooth functioning. In fact, there are numerous places on the drive shaft where these bearings are required to keep it connected. So, if any of these bearings become damaged or worn out, you can anticipate the drive shaft to make a lot of unusual noises. It may also be vibrating.

Failure of the Tubing

When the engine is operating, a tube in the drive shaft spins around. If your vehicle were to carry an excessively heavy load well beyond its capacity, this tube might begin to fail. Unusual clunking noises or other strange sounds may be the first indications of a failing tube. The best thing to do right now is to reduce your burden and get your car looked at as soon as possible.

Symptoms of Driveshaft Noise When Accelerating

Vibrations are very strong under the vehicle

If you’re driving and feel sudden, intense vibrations coming from the bottom of your car, there’s a chance your driveshaft is damaged. The shaking is usually caused by worn-out driveshaft bushings or universals joints (U-joints). When these components wear down, they can create excessive vibration in the driveshaft.

Global joint movement

If the U-joint on your driveshaft is turning too quickly or not at all, there is a problem with it. The bearing cap seal may be rusted, and the U-joint itself might be faulty. As a result, you will need to replace your driveshaft because you can’t drive your car in this condition.

Noises abnormal

Another indication of a driveshaft issue are abnormal noises. If you’re hearing metallic knocking sounds coming from underneath the car, then it’s time for an inspection.

You may also hear unusual clicking, rubbing, scratching or even squeaking noises under the vehicle. These sounds can point to a failing bearing that supports the driveshaft. A U-seal requiring lubrication can also be blamed for low-speed squeaking noise. Clicking or knocking specifically indicates a faulty CV joint. If you experience any of these issues, take your car in for servicing as soon as possible.

Problems with turning

If you have difficulty turning your car, it may be because of a broken driveshaft. This can prevent the wheels from working properly, making it hard to turn. When the driveshaft is not functioning correctly, you have less control over the vehicle as a whole.

Therefore, if you try to make a turn and your wheels don’t respond right away, there could be an issue with the driveshaft. You require immediate attention for any concerns that might prevent you from driving the automobile safely or properly.

Jerking while accelerating

The failure of a driveshaft component can cause significant shaking when accelerating from a low speed or from a stopped position. A loose U-joint or damaged centre bearing within the driveshaft can induce sluggish acceleration. When the car is shaking due to an worn U-joint, you may hear noises. As soon as possible, get these difficulties examined by a professional mechanic.

Shuddering While Accelerating

It’s possible that a failing driveshaft components are to blame. It might be another indication of faulty drive shaft components if you experience a big shudder while accelerating from low speed or coming to a halt. A loose U-joint or poor center bearing within the driveshaft may cause delayed acceleration. When the car shudders due to an aged U-joint, you may hear noises.

How much does it cost to fix a drive shaft?

Typically, the cost of a Drive Shaft Repair will differ based on what caused the problem and how quickly it may be addressed. If you just need to replace it, expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1000. The parts might cost half as much as that, with labor expenditures ranging from $200 to $500.

FAQs Common Causes And Symptoms Of Driveshaft Noise When Accelerating