Volkswagen Passat

The most common symptoms are vibrations throughout the car under acceleration or a clicking noise when turning. If the vibrations stop when you lift off the accelerator, this is a strong sign that an inner CV joint or the drive shaft itself is worn.

The outer CV joint sits closest to the wheel and accommodates steering; when worn, it usually makes a clicking noise during turns. The inner CV joint sits by the gearbox and primarily manages suspension movement; wear here typically causes vibrations under acceleration.

No, drive shafts vary depending on the engine (e.g. TDI vs TSI), gearbox (manual vs DSG), and whether the car has 4Motion. Always select your car's make, model, and engine variant to find the correct part for your specific car.

A very common cause on the Volkswagen Passat is a cracked or corroded ABS ring. When the ring is damaged, the sensor cannot read wheel speed correctly, triggering the warning light.

It requires some mechanical experience and the right tools, such as a large socket for the hub nut and suitable pullers. For a competent DIY mechanic it is entirely achievable, though observing correct torque settings is essential.

We recommend inspecting the CV boots at every service or oil change. A small tear can quickly let grease escape and allow dirt to destroy the constant velocity joint, leading to a much more expensive repair.

If the propeller shaft or its centre bearing fails, you will typically experience severe vibrations and unusual noises from beneath the car. In the worst case, the all-wheel-drive system can stop functioning or the prop shaft can cause consequential damage to surrounding components.