Drivetrain Maintenance Tips and Things To Look For

The drivetrain is a broad term referring to several parts under your car. These include the suspension system, driveshaft, wheels, exhaust, transmission, and many other vital components that get your vehicle going. There are so many different parts with various purposes that it’s easy to get confused. Therefore, here are some drivetrain maintenance tips and things to look for.
Pay Attention to the Universal Joint
The U-joint enables specific components like the driveshaft to move around freely and flexibly. It compensates for bumps on the road that the rear wheels experience, helping the car remain stable. It’s standard for these parts to be greased, so usually, no lubing of the components is necessary. With that said, any squeaking or heavy clicking sounds can be warning signs to check on the U-joint.
Inspect Constant-Velocity Joints
Constant-velocity (CV) joints, are behind each wheel that connects to the transmission. Therefore, front- and rear-wheel-driving vehicles have two joints, while four-wheel-drive vehicles have four. Usually, a protective joint boot covers and protects CV joints. It’s rare for these parts to become damaged, but they’re still vital to inspect for general maintenance purposes. It’s a good idea to check for cracks or tears around the boot. If you find any, you should bring your vehicle to a professional.
Don't Forget Your Oil Change
A well-running engine is crucial for maintaining efficiency throughout your vehicle. Oil changes are a common task in standard vehicle maintenance, and they’re among the essential methods for getting the most miles out of your car. Some synthetic oils last upwards of 10,000 miles and are necessary to clean out any potential buildups in your engine.
Mind the Differential and Drive Shaft
Differential maintenance is as essential as an oil change, and proper care results in a vehicle that provides a smooth ride. The differential is a crucial component that allows your wheels to operate at different speeds. The recommended frequency of differential servicing varies based on a car’s model, age, and overall condition. But typically, it can range from every 30,000 to 90,000 miles driven. If you notice any whining from the car or increased volume from the gear area when accelerating, you should inspect the differential.
The driveshaft is close to the differential, regulating vehicle motion and overall control when driving. Driveshaft warning signs are important to look out for as well, as this component acts as the connector between the transmission and differential.
You can rely on your vehicle for many long journies when you know a few drivetrain maintenance tips and things to look for. A well-maintained car will reliably get you where you need to go while reducing the overall cost of repairs.