Parts for your 2017 Ford Fiesta-Cv joint

Understanding the CV Joint in Your 2017 Ford Fiesta

The 2017 Ford Fiesta, a popular small hatchback in Australia and beyond, does indeed make use of CV joints. For those unfamiliar, a CV joint stands for Constant Velocity joint, and it plays a crucial role in the functioning of front-wheel drive vehicles like the Fiesta. The car's compact design and front-wheel drive setup mean that CV joints are essential components within its drivetrain system, ensuring smooth and efficient power delivery.

So what exactly is the CV joint all about? Essentially, the CV joint is a specialised type of joint that allows the transmission of torque from the engine to the wheels at a constant speed, even when they are turning or moving up and down due to suspension travel. You will find CV joints at the ends of the drive shafts, connecting the differential to the front wheels, enabling the wheels to turn left and right as you steer, while also maintaining power flow.

The 2017 Ford Fiesta uses what are called Rzeppa CV joints on the outer end of the drive shafts. These joints are designed to accommodate the steering angle and suspension movement with minimal friction and wear. On the inner side, there might be tripod style CV joints, which allow for axial movement as the suspension compresses and rebounds. Both types work together to keep the Fiesta's front wheels powered and handling smoothly, no matter the road conditions.

Now, when it comes to servicing and maintaining the CV joints on a 2017 Ford Fiesta, regular attention is important but often overlooked. The key issue with CV joints generally comes down to the protective CV boots that cover the joints. These rubber boots keep dirt, moisture, and other contaminants out of the joints while retaining the essential grease lubrication inside. If these boots crack or tear, contaminants get in and grease leaks out, causing the CV joint to wear prematurely.

Servicing the CV joints on a Fiesta isn't always about changing the joints themselves unless they are actually worn or damaged. More commonly, mechanics will inspect the boots during routine maintenance, watching for splits, holes or signs of grease leakage. If a boot is compromised, it should be replaced immediately to avoid costly joint failure down the track.

Here are a few reasons why maintaining your Fiesta's CV joints is well worth the attention:

• Ensures smooth power delivery to the front wheels so the car drives smoothly regardless of road angle or suspension movement
• Helps prevent clunking or clicking noises when turning, which often signal CV joint wear
• Protects against sudden drive shaft failure, which can leave you stranded
• Maintains the overall lifespan of the drive axle components, saving money in the long term

Replacing a CV joint on a 2017 Ford Fiesta is generally straightforward but requires some technical know-how. A mechanic will typically inspect the entire drive axle, and if the joint itself shows signs of damage such as clicking noises while cornering or vibration during acceleration, replacement will be advised. Replacing the entire drive shaft assembly with new CV joints pre-mounted is often the easiest solution for many modern vehicles, including the Fiesta.

From a DIY perspective, regular vehicle owners can still play a role in CV joint care by:

• Checking under the car for grease splatters around the front wheels or suspension area, which can indicate boot damage
• Listening for unusual noises especially when turning sharply at low speeds
• Having the CV boots inspected during regular service intervals

Ultimately, the CV joints on the 2017 Ford Fiesta are vital for the car's smooth operation, especially given its front-wheel drive setup. Neglecting them can lead to costly repairs and inconvenient breakdowns, so staying on top of maintenance will help keep the Fiesta running reliably and happily down the road.