Find the Symptoms of Bad Drive Shaft in Your BMW X5 by Lowell Mechanic

In general, the drive shaft is a very precisely balanced and weighted component that rotates at very high speeds. However, it is a cylindrical shaft and a rod-like component that are transmitting the torque from the engine to the wheels. It is commonly transmitting the torque between the driveline components at varying angles.

Moreover, these are mostly found on rear-wheel-drive cars and connect the rear of the transmission to the driveshaft. In a BMW X5, the shaft assembly is highly flexible, so you will never feel the vibrations during braking and acceleration. If the driveshaft has any problems, it will affect the drivability of the car.

How does the driveshaft function?

Having a well functional driveshaft in the BMW X5, you will notice that the axle and transmission are combined into a single unit called a transaxle. On the other hand, the driveshaft has a tubular design that is made from steel, aluminum, or carbon fiber to make it lightweight and strong.

But, the 4-wheel and rear-wheel-drive cars have separate units such as the transmission and axles. In some instances, the driveshaft is commonly transferring the turning motion of the transmission to the axle.

Signs of a bad driveshaft

When the drive shaft of the BMW X5 is damaged, you will notice several symptoms in your car while driving it on the road.

Abnormal noises

If the driveshaft has any problems, you will notice abnormal noises produced from the car. The main reason behind the problem is the failed bushing or bearing which is supporting the driveshaft or driveshaft U-joints for rotating them correctly. Ignoring it for longer may produce unusual noises from underneath the car.

On the other hand, the U-joints of the car also cause a squeaking noise at low speeds due to the lack of lubrication. Subsequently, the clicking or knocking sounds are indicating the worn CV joints in your car. At this point, you have to repair or service the car immediately.

Shuddering during acceleration

If you are experiencing a shuddering sensation in your BMW during acceleration from the low speed or a stop position, then without any delay check the driveshaft components for determining any damages. On the other hand, the loose U-joint or worn center bearing also causes shuddering problems during acceleration.

Over time, these problems also cause strange noises from the car when shudders. So, it’s always advisable to check out the driveshaft of the car as soon as possible by a reputed and professional mechanic.

Intense vibrations underneath the car

Thoroughly, inspect the driveshaft when you will notice intense vibrations produced from underneath the car. When the driveshaft U-joint or bushings of the BMW is worn out, it will cause excess driveshaft vibrations. Before installation, make sure that the driveshaft is finely balanced and do not vibrate.

Moreover, the small vibrations produced from the car will indicate numerous problems. Besides all, the excess vibrations on the driveshaft are causing acceleration problems in the drivetrain components.

Turning problems

Due to the worn-out driveshaft, you will likely experience several problems while taking turns. Moreover, the damaged driveshaft in your car is preventing the wheels from turning efficiently and affecting the control of the car. Generally, it is the most important safety concern that needs urgent repair by a mechanic right away.

So, it's always advisable to keep the driveshaft in the best possible working conditions to keep it properly lubricated. Ignoring the problem for longer may damage the driveshaft and its related components poorly. So, inspect the driveshaft at a regular interval and prevent premature wear in your car.

Conclusion

All we know is that driveshaft is an important part of the drivetrain, so a small problem in these parts may affect the entire drivability of the car. In general, the driveshaft is located underneath the car and connected to the transmission which is very difficult to access and service those components on your own.

If you are currently living near Lowell and found any of the above define signs in your BMW X5 while driving, then without any delay bring to a professional and certified mechanic to diagnose the causes behind the problem and fix it accordingly.

We at Mechanics Direct are family owned automotive servicing and repair shop and have 22 years of experience in looking after cars like Acura, Lexus, Subaru, Toyota, Honda, BMW and Mercedes.