Today’s vehicle drivetrain systems are for more complex and powerful than ever before. So, you want to make sure you choose a replacement axle that matches the original OE design attributes to ensure proper performance and durability. Avoid installing an inferior axle based on price only, that may fail in a few short months. The money you saved initially will only be more than offset by the replacement costs, as well as a potential lost customer.

With that being said, there are some things you’ll want to consider when you are selecting a replacement CV axle. 

One, you want to make sure the replacement cv axle that has been designed with the same attributes that match the original OE design. This is critical in maintaining original OE performance and dependability. 

Second, choose an axle that has been designed to keep noise, vibration, and harshness (or NVH) away from the vehicle while driving. NVH is one of the most common complaints on vehicles today and a cv axle that isn’t built to match OE attributes can cause problems after replacement that were not there in the first place.

SUV’s and CUV’s now dominate the market and their drivetrains are more complex with significantly more horsepower than just a decade ago. So, it stands to reason cv axle technology has also evolved to handle today’s more complex, powerful drivetrains.

Recent OE design improvements include: (where applicable)*

• • Upgrading to an AAR socket design that provides greater articulation operating angles and reduces NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness).*
• • Converting to an 8-ball socket design vs the older style 6-ball socket design to provide improved strength and durability.*
• • Several European applications now use a flat spline design that helps eliminate spline play and reduces NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness).*
• • Additionally, many OE axle designs incorporate a hollow tube design which helps reduce torque steer under hard acceleration. *

Also, you want to make sure the replacement cv axle includes all new OE quality materials such as neoprene dust boots and stainless-steel clamps to provide better resistance to deformation, stretching, and corrosion.  And providing all the necessary hardware you need for replacement keeps you from running back to the parts store a second time as well.

And Lastly, a sales and technical support staff ready to assist you with any installation or sales questions is a feature that isn’t built into the axle but sure is nice to have when needed.  You may not find that level of service with some cv axle manufactures and a company that is there to help you with any of those concerns gives a level of confidence when choosing an axle that ensures you are getting a quality product with a team that stands behind it.  
*Following OE protocol not enhancing protocol

This video is sponsored by TrakMotive.