Clicking noise / front wheels

[Rollamaster]

recently i have started to notice that while driving slow my corolla 1997 is making a constant (moderately loud) clicking noise as if there is something rubbing against some metal etc. I am not sure what is it though but am pretty concerned as this noise was never there before.

Wondering what is it ? and how unsafe is it not to have this fixed ? also approximation for the cost of getting this fixed will be greatly appreciated. I am wondering why would this happen as don't drive often but am based in Toronto, where the winter could get a little too unforgiving.

Appreciate all the input i can get

Thank You

[speedy25]

You have a bad front axle. The clicking noise is the joint going in and out of a divot in the joint. Replacing is your best option. Least messy and only slightly more expensive that replacing a boot and joint.

If you dont know which one is the problem, just look for all the leaked out grease. These usually fail from a torn boot leaking out all the grease.

-SP

[azcorolla]

It's most likely not going to cause a problem in the near future. I've run for months with clicking axles. If it does happen to break (unlikely), you can only coast, but the wheel won't fall off or anything like that.

Don't know the cost, but call a shop for an estimate. If you take it to a shop to get it done, don't be surprised if they tell you to replace both front axles. You might even really need both of them. : )

[Rollamaster]

Originally Posted by azcorolla

It's most likely not going to cause a problem in the near future. I've run for months with clicking axles. If it does happen to break (unlikely), you can only coast, but the wheel won't fall off or anything like that.

Don't know the cost, but call a shop for an estimate. If you take it to a shop to get it done, don't be surprised if they tell you to replace both front axles. You might even really need both of them. : )

Thank You both for your advise. Just wondering if this is a regular type wear or would there be a reason this happened ? I hardly have any one else riding with me and very rarely hit hard on bumps ... is it normal to have this part cause issues at 135000 kms ?

[awildman]

Perfectly normal. The CV joint is always moving, always being worked. A routine maintenance issue, akin to shocks/struts.

As advised above, just replace the whole axle(s). You'll pay less in labor, but more in parts. Or do them yourself if you're handy. If you can follow the directions in a repair manual and have some basic tools, and a few not-so-basic tools, you'll be fine.

[awildman]

BTW, check your wheel bearings. Excessive bearing play will cause more movement of the CV joints, causing excessive wear and tear.

[Rollamaster]

Originally Posted by awildman

BTW, check your wheel bearings. Excessive bearing play will cause more movement of the CV joints, causing excessive wear and tear.

Much Appreciated Will do as advised !!!