CV axle
The shaft that carries power from the transmission to a wheel while letting it steer and bounce.
In plain English
A CV axle (constant velocity axle) is a metal shaft with a flexible joint at each end. It carries the engine's power out to a wheel while still letting that wheel turn left and right and move up and down over bumps. Each joint is packed with grease and sealed inside a rubber cover called a boot.
Why it's on your estimate
The usual story is a torn boot: the grease leaks out, dirt gets in, and the joint wears. The classic sign is a clicking or popping noise when turning, or grease sprayed on the inside of the wheel.
How urgent is it?
Fix soon
A clicking joint usually gives you some warning time, but a joint that fails completely can leave the car unable to move. Loud clunking or vibration means get it looked at right away.
Questions to ask the shop
- Is it the boot that's torn or is the joint itself worn?
- Which side, and is it the inner or outer joint?
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