New Level Auto Service replaces CV axles and CV boots at our shop at 716 E Gude Dr in Rockville, MD. If you hear clicking when you turn or see grease on the inside of a wheel, a CV joint or boot is probably worn. Call (301) 762-1200.
- ASE-certified mechanics
- 20+ years of experience
- Licensed MD inspection station
- All makes and models
- Se habla español
Signs of a bad CV axle
- Clicking or popping when you turn. This is the classic sign of a worn outer CV joint. It’s usually loudest in tight turns, like parking lots.
- Grease on the inside of the wheel or tire. A torn CV boot flings grease out as the axle spins. Once the grease is gone, the joint wears out fast.
- Vibration when accelerating. A worn inner CV joint can cause shaking that gets worse as you speed up.
- A clunk when shifting into drive or reverse. Play in a worn joint can make a clunk when the drivetrain takes up the slack.
- A torn or cracked CV boot. Catching a torn boot early can save the joint, so it’s worth checking during routine service.
- Humming or knocking from the front. Worn axles and related suspension parts can make noise that changes with speed.
What a CV axle does
A CV (constant velocity) axle sends power from the transmission to the wheels while letting the wheels steer and move up and down with the suspension. Front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive cars rely on them.
- Inner and outer CV joints
- CV boots and clamps
- Wheel bearings and hubs
- Control arms and bushings
- Tie rod ends
- Test drive after repair
Each axle has flexible joints covered by rubber boots that hold grease in and keep dirt out. When a boot tears, dirt and water get in, the joint wears, and it starts to click. We inspect the axles and boots and replace what’s worn.
Part of your steering and suspension
CV axles work alongside your steering and suspension parts. If the car also clunks over bumps or the steering feels loose, see our steering and suspension page.
Why Rockville drivers bring their cars to us
New Level Auto Service is owned by Christian, a mechanic with more than 20 years of experience. The shop has been in Rockville for over 10 years, and our mechanics are ASE certified.
- 20+ yrsHands-on experience behind the owner
- 10+ yrsServing drivers in Rockville
- ASECertified mechanics
- EN / ESWe speak English and Spanish
CV axle FAQ
What does a bad CV axle sound like?
The most common sound is clicking or popping when you turn, especially in tight, slow turns. A worn inner joint can also cause vibration when accelerating.
Is it safe to drive with a bad CV axle?
For a short time, maybe, but a worn joint can eventually break and leave the car unable to move. If you hear clicking or see grease on the wheel, have it checked soon.
Can you replace just the CV boot?
Sometimes, if the boot is caught early before dirt damages the joint. Once the joint is clicking, replacing the whole axle is usually the better repair.
What causes a CV boot to tear?
Age, heat, road debris and potholes. Once it tears, the grease comes out and the joint starts to wear quickly.
Do I need an appointment?
Walk-ins are welcome. Calling ahead at (301) 762-1200 usually gets you in faster.
Bring your car in
New Level Auto Service, 716 E Gude Dr, Rockville, MD 20850. Walk-ins are welcome, but calling ahead gets you faster service.
- Phone (301) 762-1200
- Hours Monday to Friday 8 AM to 5 PM, Saturday 9 AM to 2 PM
- Extras Night drop available and 24-hour emergency towing
- Payment Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express
