Questions and Answers

Noisy CV Joints

Q. I have a 1984 Honda CRX that has a CV (Constant Velocity) joint that is in need of repair. It is making a lot of noise when turning. My question is, if the joint fails while driving will this make the vehicle undriveable, or could one possibly limp home? Also, isn't it dangerous? Is it possible for the wheels to seize up or something, making steering impossible? My husband drives the car to and from work, (approx. one hour each way). The drive has a lot of curves. He insists that if the joint fails he could still drive it home. Apparently he doesn't believe it is dangerous either.

One more question, can the failure of the joint possibly cause other damage to the car?

Thank you for your help, Wendy

A. Wendy, if I were you, I'd make sure Hubby has a good pair of walking shoes, if he doesn't get it fixed he's got a long walk ahead of him. If that joint should break, the car isn't going to go anywhere. That car needs two axles to make the car go and if one is broken or missing, the transmission will just spin. It is possible that a wheel could lock up, but I don't think it's very likely, but does he want to chance it?

Can the failure of the joint possibly cause other damage to the car? Yes it will. If it breaks at highway speed the damage could be considerable. I have seen broken shafts rip out oil pans, brake lines (no brake line, no brakes) and crack transmissions.

I would highly recommend getting it fixed as soon as possible.