Q1: What are the axles on a car?

Axles are metal shafts that run underneath the centre of your car and connect a pair of wheels, supporting the vehicle's weight and transferring power from engine to wheels to make the vehicle move.

Q2: How many types of axles are there?

There are 4 types of axles.

Front Axles:

Purpose- Supports the weight of the front of the vehicle, allows for steering and absorbs shocks from the road.

Rear Axles:

Purpose- Transmits power from the engine to the rear wheels, causing them to rotate.

Stub Axles:

Purpose- Connects individual front wheels to the front axle, allowing them to pivot for steering.

Trans Axles:

Purpose- A combination of a transmission and an axle, typically found in front wheel drive vehicles to transmit power to the front wheels.

Q3: Can you drive with a damaged axle?

No, it is strongly advised that you do NOT continue to drive your vehicle with a broken axle. The damage can worsen when driven, and can cause a sudden loss in vehicle control, steering, and power to the wheels. Accidents are highly likely if a vehicle with a broken axle is driven. Your axle will either require repairing or completely replacing.

Q4: Can driving over a pothole break an axle?

Yes, if the impact is severe enough, or if your vehicle has already acquired some damage to the axle. Sudden, severe impact can bend, crack or fracture an axle. Heavier vehicles, or vehicles over their weight limit, are also more likely to break their axle driving over a pothole quickly, as the extra weight puts more strain on the axle and wheels.

Q5: What happens if your axle breaks while driving?

If your axle breaks whilst driving, you may experience a sudden loss of power, control and handling. Pull over safely, Immediately, as it is no longer safe to drive your vehicle.

Q6: How do I know if my axle is damaged?

Signs of damage or failing axles can be subtle, which leaves them easily missed until it is too late. Your vehicle may show any of the following:

• Excessive vibrations while accelerating or turning.
• Strange and new noises; Grinding sounds, clicks, knocking or bumping, especially when turning.
• Pulling to one side, as one or more wheels can have a loss of power.
• Fluid Leaks can also indicate damaged axles.

Q7: Is a broken axle dangerous?

A: Yes, a broken axle is incredibly dangerous as it can cause accidents from lack of vehicle control, potential wheel detachment, difficulty steering and pulling from the wheels. Do not continue driving if you suspect a broken axle.

Q8: What should I do if I have an axle problem?

Do not drive the vehicle, contact A1 Premier Transmissions today at 01767 669575 or book online   for specialist CVT gearbox diagnostics and UK-wide repairs. We can retrieve your vehicle, bring it to our repair centre, repair the faults and return it to you.

Four Wheel Drive Diagram