Mazda CV Joints: Replacement, Care, and More
Your Mazda's drivetrain takes a lot of abuse just from everyday commuting, which eventually takes its toll on components.
Over time, components such as a Mazda CV joint will need servicing and replacement to keep your Mazda driving safely and efficiently.
Continue reading as we share about Mazda CV joints: replacement, care, and more.
What Are CV Joints?
All modern front-wheel drive vehicles make use of constant velocity joints, or CV joints, to transfer driving power to the wheels. CV joints are mostly fitted in FWD cars. However, CV joints are also used in certain all-wheel drive systems to send power from the rear differential to the rear wheels.
When used in FWD vehicles, the Mazda CV joint allows power to be transferred to the wheels while the front wheels move up and down with the suspension system and also allows the front wheels to simultaneously steer at an angle, all while maintaining the same constant rotation, hence the name constant velocity joint.
The CV joint is a clever design that typically features a ball or tripod design joint packed with a special grease on either side of the drive shaft. Rubber or plastic concertina-style boots are fitted over the joints to seal off and protect the joints' inner mechanisms from damaging dirt and moisture.
Ball-type joints are fitted on the side of the drive shaft nearest the wheels in FWD cars, while the tripod-type joints are used on the inner side of the drive shafts that insert into the transmission housing.
Common Signs of CV Joint Problems
A Mazda CV joint can last anywhere from 70,000 miles to 130,000 miles, depending on factors like road conditions, aggressive driving, hard braking, and sharp cornering. The harder CV joints are made to work, the greater the chance of them failing earlier than anticipated.
Noises and Vibrations
As the mileage on a vehicle climbs, the wear and tear on the CV joint increases. A worn Mazda CV joint is normally easy to detect as the joint will start emitting weird clunking noises, which are more noticeable when turning a corner.
As the bearings in a Mazda CV joint wear down, the loose joint starts to cause vibrations, which will be noticed through the steering wheel, particularly during acceleration and deceleration, accompanied by unusual noises.
Grease Leaks
The rubber CV joint boots are there to protect the joint from the ingress of dirt and moisture that will quickly damage the joint. When a boot splits due to age or is damaged by road debris, the special grease in the joint will begin to leak out, which can be easily spotted by doing a visual inspection.
Vehicle Handling Issues
Worn and damaged front CV joints will affect the smooth handling of your Mazda as the joints bind up. There is the risk that your vehicle may even start pulling to one side, compromising the vehicle's steering and your safety.
Steps to Replace Mazda CV Joints
When it's time to replace your Mazda CV joint, this repair is best left to a qualified repair center if you are not a competent DIY mechanic. If tackling this repair yourself, the following steps are used along with the correct tools, including a CV joint puller and torque wrench.
Step 1
Safety is paramount, so chock the wheels and engage the parking brake before jacking the car up using appropriate jack stands and removing the wheels.
Step 2
Remove the CV assembly by loosening and removing the axle nut, ball joint nut, and suspension plus wheel hub before pulling out the drive shaft first from the front wheel hub and then from the transmission housing.
Step 3
Carefully install the new Mazda CV Joint first into the transmission housing, then into the wheel hub, ensuring that all circlips are secure as well as any clamps and rubber boots.
Step 4
All the suspension parts will need to be reconnected and fastened up to the correct torque specs before lowering the vehicle.
Test drive your vehicle to ensure that the Mazda CV joint is running smoothly without any unusual noises or vibrations.
Caring for Your Mazda CV Joints
Regular servicing at the manufacturer's scheduled service intervals is recommended.
Your CV joints should be inspected regularly to check for any damage to the rubber boots or grease leakage. The moment you notice any tear or grease leakage, have the joint serviced to prevent further damage or potential failure.
Cost Considerations for CV Joint Replacement
Depending on your vehicle's mileage, warranty, and your budget, owners can consider different repair options.
Factors Affecting Replacement Cost
CV joint replacement costs vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle, plus the quality of the replacement CV joints vs. OEM Genuine Mazda parts.
Factors like the type of vehicle, workshop service rates, or additional repairs can affect the repair cost.
DIY vs. Professional Replacement
As mentioned, if you are not DIY confident, then it's best to leave this to the professionals; however, there is a substantial cost saving by doing the replacement yourself.
Using a professional service center or authorized Mazda Service Center will normally mean a warranty on the work done but at a higher cost.
Where to Buy Quality Mazda CV Joints
The highest quality OEM Genuine Mazda CV joints come with a manufacturer's warranty and are available from most Mazda dealerships. Owners can shop around for aftermarket replacements from reputable auto spare shops.
FAQs About Mazda CV Joints
We answer some frequently asked questions about Mazda CV joints.
How Often Should CV Joints Be Replaced?
CV joints will last anywhere from around 70,000 miles to 130,000 miles; however, if you do hear unusual noises, vibrations, or there is visual damage to the boot, it's time to replace the CV joint or boot.
Can I Drive with a Damaged CV Joint?
Yes, you can, but it can cause further drivetrain damage and compromise your safety, so it's recommended to have your Mazda CV joint replaced or serviced as soon as possible.
Get CV Joint Service at Central Mazda
Keep your Mazda driving for many more miles with a CV joint service at Central Mazda in Plainfield, CT.
Our Mazda-trained technicians are perfectionists when it comes to Mazda CV Joints: replacement, care, and more. Owners can rely on Central Mazda to offer Genuine Mazda Parts, along with the most convenient service experience possible.
