Inspecting Your U-joints
*EASY*
If you have a rear-wheel drive car, occasionally inspect the U-joints as follows:
- Park the vehicle on level ground with the engine OFF, the parking brake engaged, and the transmission in PARK or REVERSE. It will be necessary to crawl under the car.
- Identify the location of your drive shaft. It is the hollow metal rod that connects the transmission to the differential. Wear gloves and a long sleeve shirt so as not to burn yourself on any components. Also wear eye protection so foreign particles like undercar dirt do not enter your eye.
- Grab the drive shaft and try to shake it vigorously. The drive shaft
should not move at all.
If any looseness is detected in the yoke, the U-joint is worn and must be replaced. - Have your vehicle serviced by a professional automotive technician if necessary.
