What is a CV Joint?

Ever heard a clicking sound at the front of a front wheel drive car as it’s turning? The chances are that the CV joint s need replacing.

So what is a CV joint? And what do the C and the V stand for? The name CV joint is short for a Constant Velocity joint. C.V. joints are attached to each end of the drive shaft. The role of the CV joints is to transfer the power and torque from the engine along the drive shaft to the wheels at a constant speed. CV joints not only have to do this; they also need to transfer the torque to turning wheels that are moving up and down over road undulations as well. With all this motion, a CV joint needs to be packed with grease. You’ll find a CV joint enclosed with the grease inside a rubber or plastic “boot”.

Two types of CV joint are in common use: the ball-type CV joint and the tripod type CV joint.

In general, a CV joint will last a very long time. But if the boot is damaged, then the grease comes out and moisture and grit get in. Friction, moisture and dirt can cause premature failure through lack of lubrication and by corrosion.

All front wheel drive vehicles will have CV joints. Many rear wheel drive and four-wheel drive cars, and trucks will have CV joints as well.

We hope that helps answer the question ‘What is What is a CV Joint?’!

Back to Car Glossary