How to Deal With Half-Shaft Boot Failure in a VW From the Best in Oakland

Volkswagen automobiles have a long history of being durable and reliable in any situation. After all, when a car is being made specifically for the family, durability and functionality should be the automobile’s main focus. Although Volkswagen has a stellar track record when it comes to long-term drivability, it is still an automobile and will require upkeep and repairs at regular intervals.

There is one problem in particular that may rear its ugly head when it comes to your Volkswagen, and that would be what is known as a half-shaft boot failure. Many drivers who do not possess any sort of mechanical inclination may not even know what a half-shaft boot is or its function. Once it starts failing, it is important to recognize the symptoms of the problem and how to go about repairing it in a cost-efficient, quality manner. Let’s discuss these issues in the article below.

What is a half-shaft boot and what does it do?

Half-shaft boots are found in Volkswagens that utilize front-wheel drive. Front-wheel Volkswagens possess CV axles, which are also commonly referred to as half-shaft axles because they operate one half of the car. These axles are covered with a boot made of rubber. This is essential to keeping moisture and debris off of the axles to prevent deterioration. Therefore, if you have a problem with your half-shaft boots, you have a problem with your axles, and you need to remedy the situation immediately. Without timely repair, the faulty boots will leak grease and will be unable to keep the axles lubricated and working properly. This will lead to corrosion of the axle, which will be a more costly repair than routine maintenance.

Signs of a Failing Half-Shaft Boot

One of the main causes of a half-shaft boot failure is a simple lack of lubrication. Half-shaft boots need to be lubricated with grease frequently in order to keep them working. General wear and tear also contributes to the degradation of half-shaft boots, especially if you tend to be heavy footed or reckless behind the wheel. Careful driving will ensure that your boots sustain minimal damage, but they still need the proper upkeep to maintain.

If you let the problem persist too far, the boot failure will manifest into a problem with your whole axle system. If you didn’t see the problems with your boot already, you most certainly will notice them at this point. Axles influence just about every aspect of the drivability of your car, and when they are broken, you will feel it as you drive.

The acceleration of the car can also be affected in the most severe of cases. The axle may also corrode to the point where the joint completely breaks, causing the axle to spin off its axis and damaging adjacent parts of the automobile. These problems are as serious as they sound. You do not want to let a simple half-shaft boot failure manifest into this type of situation.

What to Do When Your Half-Shaft Boot Has Failed

When your half-shaft boot is malfunctioning, it is important to act decisively and bring your automobile to a qualified mechanic for service. The only thing that is up for debate is where to bring your car to ensure that your Volkswagen gets the proper attention that it deserves.

If you live in the Oakland, CA area, Germany’s Best, Inc. is located right in your city. We specialize in German automobiles, such as your Volkswagen. If you drive a German import, you likely know the potential costs that come with bringing your car to the dealership for repairs. Germany’s Best, Inc. goes to great lengths to keep our repair costs down and keep more money in your pocket.

Our technicians have decades of experience working on cars just like yours, so you will be sure to get a professional dealership experience at a fraction of the price. If you live in Oakland, Berkeley, Emeryville, or Piedmont, and you own a Volkswagen that you suspect is suffering from a half-shaft boot failure, don’t delay. Bring your car to Germany’s Best, Inc. to ensure that it gets the best repair possible.

* Volkswagen Car image credit goes to: bruev.