Known also as the propeller shaft, prop shaft, or driveline, the drive shaft is an integral component of the drivetrain - a group of parts that all work together to transfer energy from the engine to the wheels. The drive shaft is a long shaft commonly made of steel or aluminum that physically connects the gearbox or the differential to the wheels of the vehicle and, in turn, transfers engine torque as needed. Keep reading to learn more about this part and what to do if you ever face drive shaft issues.

Different Drive Shafts for Different Vehicles

The type of drive shaft used varies by the type of engine and transmission configuration.

Rear-Wheel Drive

In rear-wheel drive vehicles with the engine at the front, a longer drive shaft is required to cover the length of the car.

Front-Wheel Drive

The drive shaft in front-wheel drive vehicles refers to the transverse shaft that transfers power to the wheels, particularly the front wheels. The shaft which connects the gearbox to the rear differential is known as the propeller shaft.

All-Wheel Drive

All-wheel drive vehicles have at least two drive shafts - one to join the transfer case to each axle.

Drive Shaft Parts

U-Joints

These joints connect the drive shaft to the differential and, in some cases, the drive shaft to the transmission.

Slip Yoke

The slip yoke is an internal splined shaft that transfers power from the transfer case to the drive shaft.

CV Socket Yoke

Constant velocity (CV) drive shafts feature CV socket yokes, which are used to join two shafts together.

Double Cardan Shaft

The Double Cardan shaft mounts two universal joints back-to-back using a center yoke to combat jerky rotation.

Center Yoke

The center two outboard yokes transmit power while maintaining a constant angle to minimize vibration.

Drive Shaft Bolt

This is a consumable bolt that secures the drive shaft to the axle flange. The drive shaft bolt needs to be replaced every time the driveshaft is serviced.

Splines

These are ridges on a drive shaft that fit together with a groove in a mating piece and transfer torque to it.

Grease Fitting

Otherwise known as grease nipples, grease fittings are small hydraulic check valves on bearings that supply lubricant to internal components.

How to Choose Drive Shafts

Vehicle Compatibility

To guarantee a proper fit and the original level of performance, ensure that you're getting a driveshaft specific to your vehicle, as they can differ between models and even model years. When shopping for a driveshaft replacement, you can search according to your vehicle's VIN (vehicle identification number).

Aftermarket or OEM

Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) driveshafts are typically made by authorized manufacturers, whereas aftermarket driveshafts are made by third-party manufacturers.
We recommend investing in OEM driveshafts to return your vehicle's drivetrain to its original level of performance. Because of the more stringent levels of manufacturing, you'll likely get more use out of an OEM replacement. Not to mention, aftermarket units may void your vehicle's warranty.

Common Problems & When to Replace

Vibrations & Shuddering

If you're feeling vibrations through the wheel or the seat, there might be a drive shaft issue or an off-balance wheel. Whatever the case, a trusted automobile professional can help diagnose the issue.

Strange Noises

Keep your ears open for any clunking or clicking while turning and squeaking. Clunking noises might be caused by worn shaft joints while clicking during turning, which is a definite indicator of a worn CV joint. Because the drive shaft is usually well-greased to keep friction to a minimum, you should be alarmed when you hear squeaking noises. This might be due to damaged rubber gaiters, which hold grease in place. In all cases, get your vehicle checked by a trusted mechanic.

Turning Problems

If the CV joint is severely worn down, your vehicle's wheels might not turn smoothly. This is a safety hazard, and the CV joint will likely have to be replaced.

Routine Drive Shaft Maintenance

Drive shaft maintenance is rarely carried out by vehicle owners but is pretty straightforward. The most simple yet impactful practice you can perform is a visual inspection from time to time to see if there is any noticeable wear on the drive shaft. Next, clean and keep the drive shaft free from oil and grime. This can be done as often as you change the oil in your vehicle. Finally, if you see any damage to the driveshaft and feel any vibrations, you can send your vehicle to a mechanic to rebalance it.

Replacing Your Drive Shafts

The drive shaft in a front-wheel drive vehicle can be replaced by carrying out the following steps:
1. Crack the hub nut off so it's loose but not entirely off.
2. Jack your vehicle up and on axle stands with all wheels in the air.
3. Remove the wheels and engage the brakes. Remove and suspend the caliper using sturdy cable ties to relieve any tension on the brake hose.
4. Remove the hub nut and brake disc altogether.
5. Undo the nut onto the lower ball joint and use a ball joint splitter to break the hub assembly and the lower arm apart. You can now pull the hub away from the drive shaft.
6. The end of the drive shaft that slots into the gearbox should slide out. In some cases, it may be held by a circlip.
7. To install a new drive shaft, repeat the above steps in reverse order.

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