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What happens if my driveshaft breaks while driving?

I drive an old beater that I want to keep until it absolutely dies. However, my mechanic told me that the driveshaft is starting to wear out and it could become dangerous somewhere down the road. What happens if my driveshaft breaks while driving?

avatar
Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
If your driveshaft breaks while driving, the result would be:
  • Immediate loss of steering
  • Inability to go forward or backward
  • Inability to accelerate
  • Parts of the driveshaft striking the pavement and causing sparks or severe damage to other components of your vehicle
The driveshaft of your car takes power from the engine and transfers it into the torque that causes your wheels to rotate. Important stuff! To avoid a bad driveshaft, look out for symptoms, such as:
  • Difficulty turning in either direction
  • Car shuddering during acceleration
  • Excessive vibrations when driving
  • Knocking or clicking noises when driving
Keeping your car as long as possible can save you cash, but just make sure you do
routine maintenance
so your vehicle doesn’t present a danger to you or other drivers.
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