If you have a rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive vehicle, it has a driveshaft.  It’s the metal tube that transmits mechanical power from the transmission to the differential and, ultimately, to your wheels.    

Because it does a lot of turning in its lifetime, it is lubricated so that power can be transferred smoothly and quietly.  After a while, it may need to be lubricated again to keep friction from damaging parts that rub together.  

There are different types of driveshafts.  Some are considered to have a “lifetime seal” and don’t need to be lubricated for their lifetime.  Others have parts called U-joints and need to be lubricated.  There are some signs to listen for that can tell you if your drive shaft needs lubricating. You may hear clicks, squeaks or clunks whenever you accelerate, slow down or turn. You may also feel vibrations while you’re driving, especially at high speeds.  

If you notice those signs, bring it in so our technicians can look at it.  If your driveshaft doesn’t have fittings, it can’t be lubricated and may need to be replaced.  If it does, the technician will clean the dirt and debris around the fitting.  Then, using a grease gun, they’ll pump grease into the joint and wipe excess grease off.  

Then, the technician will make sure the driveshaft rotates without binding or play.  A newly lubricated driveshaft will last longer, is less likely to corrode and you should notice the vibration and noise you heard while driving is far less or gone altogether.
 
Keep in mind that U-joints that can be lubricated should be checked around every 5,000-10,000 miles/8,000-16,000km.  You can always look in your owner’s manual for the interval recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.  

Sovel's Auto Service
41425 W. 10 Mile Rd.
Novi, Michigan 48375
248-348-7337

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