The driveshaft is a steel or aluminum cylindrical component that connects the transmission to the front and/or rear differential. The driveshaft connects to the transmission through the universal joints, which are responsible for transferring the torque from the transmission to the drive wheels at a constant speed.

Signs that your drive shaft may need repair are:

• Clunking noises when the vehicle is in motion
• A vibration that intensifies as the car accelerates
• Strong vibration coming from the vehicle’s floorboards
• Resistance when maneuvering the car around corners
• Squeaking or rattling noises
• Visible play in the U joints when you grab or otherwise manually move the drive shaft
• Visible signs of U joint wear, such as rust around the yoke