Parts for your 2017 Ford Focus-Cv joint

Understanding the CV Joint in Your 2017 Ford Focus

The 2017 Ford Focus comes equipped with front-wheel drive, which means it relies on components like the CV joint to help deliver power from the engine to the wheels while allowing for smooth steering and suspension movement. If you're curious about what a CV joint is, why it matters, and how to keep it in good nick, this guide will walk you through it all with a laid-back approach.

First off, a CV joint, which stands for constant velocity joint, is a critical component in front-wheel-drive vehicles like the Ford Focus. Its main job is to transmit power from the transmission to the front wheels at a constant speed, regardless of the angle of the steering or movement of the suspension. Think about when you're driving around corners or over bumps - the front wheels aren't sitting still or moving in a straight line, so there needs to be some flexibility built in to handle these changes. This is where the CV joint comes into play.

The 2017 Ford Focus uses half-shafts, sometimes called drive shafts or axle shafts, that are fitted with CV joints at either end. On the inner side, the CV joint connects to the transmission, while on the outer side it links to the wheel hub. These joints are specially designed to accommodate a wide range of motion without losing power transfer quality. Unlike older universal joints found in rear-wheel-drive vehicles, CV joints maintain a consistent rotational speed, which prevents vibrations and results in smoother handling and better ride comfort.

There are generally two types of CV joints found on most front-wheel-drive cars: the ball-type joint (also called Rzeppa joint) on the outer end, and the tripod type on the inner end. The Ford Focus tends to use a ball-type joint on the outer axle, which is exposed to steering and suspension movement, and a tripod or fixed-type joint on the inner side. Both types work harmoniously to ensure power is delivered efficiently while allowing the front wheels to turn and move up and down.

Because CV joints are constantly in motion and exposed to the elements, maintenance is important to keep them functioning properly. The joints are protected by rubber or plastic CV boots, which are filled with grease to lubricate the moving parts inside. If the boot gets cracked, torn, or damaged, dirt and water can get inside and cause the joint to wear out prematurely. This usually results in a distinct clicking or popping noise when turning - a classic sign that the CV joint needs attention.

When servicing your 2017 Ford Focus, it's good practice to give the CV boots a lookover for any signs of damage. Even if the joints seem fine, replacing torn CV boots early can save you from having to replace the entire CV joint or axle shaft down the track, which can be a fair bit more costly.

If a CV joint does fail, it's usually best to replace the entire axle shaft rather than attempting a repair. Modern CV joints are often integrated with the axle shafts, and specialist tools or skills are required to rebuild them properly. When booking in a service or repair, mechanics will often recommend replacing the axle as a unit. This ensures the job is done correctly and the new parts are fully compatible with your Ford Focus.

Aside from damage to the boot, general wear and tear on the CV joints can happen over time, especially if you do a lot of stop-start city driving, frequent tight turning, or drive over rough surfaces regularly. Being alert to any unusual noises, such as clicking while turning or vibrations under acceleration, is useful. If you spot these issues early on, getting a mechanic to inspect the joints can prevent a complete breakdown later.

For Ford Focus owners keen on DIY, checking the CV boots can be done when the front wheels are off the ground during tyre changes or maintenance. Look out for grease splattered around the inside of the wheel rim or on suspension parts as signs that a boot is leaking. If comfortable, the boot clamps can be replaced relatively easily, but if the joint itself is noisy or loose, it's time to get professional help.

To keep your 2017 Ford Focus's CV joints in top shape, regular inspections as part of scheduled servicing are the way to go. Reliable servicing centres will check the CV boots and joints for damage and grease condition. Keeping your car's drivetrain well-maintained not only helps avoid expensive repairs but also ensures a safe and smooth drive.

So if you're driving a 2017 Ford Focus, the CV joint is definitely a key player in your car's performance. Don't overlook it, keep an eye on the boots and watch out for those early warning sounds, and you'll be rewarded with reliable, smooth cornering and power delivery for many kilometres to come.