Your Nissan is composed of various components that work electrically and mechanically. As the engine operates, it transmits power to the battery and to the other parts in your vehicle. The wheels are the components in your Nissan which perform a mechanical function by spinning. The force that triggers them to spin also comes from the engine, delivered to the wheels through the transmission system.

The wheels not only produce a rotational motion, but also move left and right whenever your vehicle needs to turn, so as up and down movements as your Nissan encounters road irregularities. The wheels have to move efficiently, and the force must therefore be seamlessly transferred. One of the components in your Nissan which is involved with the transmission of rotational force to the wheels is your Nissan axle assembly, a whole unit composed of several parts — the axle shaft, constant velocity joints, and u-joints. Axle assembly is typically employed in front and four-wheel drives, which is also responsible for keeping the proper position of the wheels to each other and to the body of your Nissan.

The assembly's CV joints maintain the constant delivery of power to the wheels while they are moving. Each joint are metal parts, greased and housed inside a rubber material called the CV boot. As they operate, they need the grease inside the boots to allow smooth movement of the metal components and prevent them from stiffly working while in contact with one another. And aside from keeping the grease, the boots also securely protect the joints against outside debris which may threaten to contaminate them. The CV boot is rounded and has pleats, allowing flexibility as the wheels and the joints move.

The entire axle assembly can withstand the stresses that the extreme turns of the wheels create. Operating in a harsh environment, they are designed for toughness and efficient power transfer. But then due to their hefty job, it is unavoidable for its parts to get defective, wherein the CV boots are the ones that often suffer. Though they really play no part in the performance, the life of the axle assembly depends on their ability to secure the joints. When the boots acquire tear, the grease inside will leak, and dirt will get in. Without the grease, the metal components of the joint will have a fast rate of wearing and the dirt may cause abrasions that will lead to the failure of the joints, and ultimately of the whole axle assembly.

Are you hearing grinding noises as you turn your Nissan? Better check your axle assembly because they might already be damaged. If you find that they are, then it is best that you find a Nissan axle assembly replacement. The severity of damage in the boots usually tells whether you need to replace the entire axle assembly or only the joints. Nonetheless, whether it's the assembly or the joints that need replacement, Parts Train always has the best aftermarket products on hand.