Parts for your 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer-Driveshafts

Understanding the Driveshafts on a 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer

The 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer is a popular compact car known for its sporty appeal and reliable performance. When looking under the hood or beneath the car, some folks might wonder about the role of driveshafts on this particular model. For those unfamiliar, driveshafts are crucial components in many vehicles, responsible for transmitting power from the engine to the wheels. But does the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer use driveshafts, and if so, what should drivers know about them?

The good news is that the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer does utilise driveshafts. The reason for this relates to how the car is built and its drivetrain setup. The Lancer in 2016 is typically equipped with a front-wheel-drive system, meaning the engine powers the front wheels. In this configuration, there are two driveshafts, commonly called half shafts or CV (constant velocity) axles, connecting the transaxle (a combination of the transmission and differential) to the front wheels.

These driveshafts are responsible for transmitting the rotational force generated by the engine and transmission through the differential, allowing the front wheels to propel the car forward or backward. Unlike rear-wheel drive vehicles that might have a long central driveshaft running the length of the car to the rear wheels, in front-wheel-drive cars like the Lancer, the driveshafts are shorter and more compact, positioned directly on each side of the front axle.

The driveshafts on the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer are generally made up of a steel shaft with CV joints on both ends. These CV joints are flexible and allow the driveshaft to move and adjust with the steering and suspension while continuing to transmit power smoothly. This flexibility is essential, helping to maintain performance and providing a smooth driving experience despite the movements of the wheels and suspension during cornering or over rough roads.

When it comes to servicing and maintaining the driveshafts on the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer, keeping an eye on the CV joints and their protective boots is key. These boots are rubber or plastic sleeves that house grease and protect the joints from dirt, moisture, and debris. If the boots crack or tear, the grease can escape, and dirt can get inside, leading to accelerated wear and potential failure of the joint. This can cause symptoms like clicking noises during turns, vibrations, or even loss of drive power to the wheels.

Regular inspections during routine servicing should include checks of the CV boots for any signs of damage or grease leakage. If a damaged boot is caught early, it's much cheaper and easier to just replace the boot and repack the joint with grease rather than replacing the entire driveshaft assembly. However, once the CV joint itself is damaged, replacement of the whole driveshaft is usually the best course of action.

Replacing driveshafts or CV axles on a 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer is generally straightforward for a qualified mechanic. The process involves removing the wheel, detaching components like the suspension arms or hub assemblies if necessary, and then sliding out the old shaft before fitting a new one. This repair restores smooth power delivery to the wheels and eliminates noises or vibrations associated with a failing driveshaft.

Mitsubishi Lancer owners should pay attention to these driveshafts, especially if the car starts making unusual sounds or if vibrations come from the front end during acceleration or cornering. Also, rough or off-road driving conditions can accelerate wear on these parts, so more frequent inspections might be needed in those situations.

Overall, driveshafts are vital for front-wheel-drive cars like the 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer. They ensure that the power created by the engine reaches the road efficiently and reliably, helping the vehicle perform well day after day. Treating these components with care as part of regular servicing means less chance of breakdowns and smoother driving experiences down the track.