Can you drive a car with a broken axle?

Did you know that the performance of your vehicle's wheel system is basically dependent on the condition of the CV joints and axles?  These components are involved in the steering, driving, and braking of the car, joining the power from the engine to the wheels. They carry the total weight of the vehicle, plus customers and cargo.  If unharmed, these joints can last up to 100,000 miles.  Because the CV axle is continuously rotating and flexing to accommodate different road conditions, it can wear out and fail, resulting in an expensive CV joint repair.

Can you drive a car with a broken axle?  Without two operational axles, your car won’t be going much of wherever. They’re what transfers power to the wheels from the transmission or the differential. If one of your axles is cracked, do not drive the vehicle. It’s not safe.

If you notice a bumping, clicking noise when going into turns, your axle isn’t broken yet, but it’s only a matter of time. It’s most likely a failing CV joint. If the boot that protects the joint is damaged and the grease leaks out, dirt and debris will get in. Combined with the lack of lubrication from not enough grease, the joint will ultimately tear itself apart.

If your axles are failing, you’ll still technically be able to drive your vehicle. This is very dangerous, though, as they could completely fail at any point. When your axle fails, it’s potential that you’ll lose control of the car, possibly causing an accident. It’s a far better choice to have the issue diagnosed and repaired now, rather than trusting to chance.  

Worried about driving with a broken axle?  Call our ASE Certified technicians at Auto & Fleet Mechanic for more information about CV joint repair and to make an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in Modesto, CA, and the surrounding area.