It’s always a headache when any part of your automobile stops working. From a minor component to a major part of the engine, every element of your car performs a vital function. So, when any component gets worn out or starts malfunctioning, it’s important to get it checked and repaired/replaced if needed. One such critical component that should be in good working condition is the drivetrain.
The drivetrain of a car comprises all of the components required to transfer engine energy to the wheels and make your vehicle move. It is the drivetrain that connects the engine to the wheels, resulting in moving the car. The drivetrain is one of the key components of any vehicle which makes it important to learn more about it- what it does, why it malfunctions, and how to keep it in good health. In this post, we’ll focus on the major causes of drivetrain failure to help you avoid those issues and keep the drivetrain in proper working condition.
Causes of Drivetrain Malfunction
Often the terms drivetrain and powertrain are used interchangeably despite the fact that they are not the same thing. The drivetrain assists in sending power to the drive wheels when the engine runs. It might be the front wheels, rear wheels, or all four wheels. The key drivetrain parts are Transmission, Driveshaft, U-Joint, CV Joint, Differential, and Axle Shafts. Drivetrain is of four types- Four-wheel drive (4WD), Front-wheel drive (FWD), Rear-wheel drive (RWD), and All-wheel drive (AWD).
When something goes wrong, your drivetrain sends you a lot of warning signals. You should pay attention to those signals and get your vehicle fixed before a major problem emerges. If your vehicle is exhibiting early signs of drivetrain deterioration, such as strange noises or excessive vibration, maintenance should be performed immediately to prevent the problem from worsening and inflicting more serious damage. Here are some common causes of drivetrain malfunction that result in problems like excessive vibration and performance issues.
- Faulty Spark Plugs
Your engine’s performance could be hampered by old or overused spark plugs. An aged spark plug in your car may become ineffective, resulting in the warning sign displayed on your dashboard. As the plugs age, they can no longer deliver the spark needed to keep the engine running properly. To ensure that your automobile runs correctly, make sure to visit an auto repair shop and replace the faulty spark plugs to avoid further damage. An issue with the engine will almost certainly result in a Drivetrain malfunction. Foul spark plugs are one of the most common causes of engine malfunction.
- Ignition Coil Failure
Ignition coils supply the required electricity to the car’s spark plugs, allowing the engine to keep running. Power cannot be supplied to the spark plugs when the coils fail. If an engine coil is too old, it will not supply adequate power to the spark plugs. The engine coil could also fail if it is subjected to excessive heat or vibration. It is recommended that ignition coils be replaced every 20,000 to 25,000 miles for optimal performance.
- Faulty Fuel Pump
Clogged or damaged fuel injectors, as well as faulty fuel pumps, can also cause issues. When a fuel pump fails to supply adequate fuel, it results in power loss and drivetrain malfunction.