Parts for your 2017 Volkswagen Amarok-Cv joint

Understanding the CV Joint on the 2017 Volkswagen Amarok

The 2017 Volkswagen Amarok is a popular ute in Australia known for its robust design and excellent off-road capabilities. When it comes to the drivetrain components, a common question is whether the Amarok uses CV joints, and if so, what their purpose is and how to maintain them properly.

The short answer is yes, the 2017 Volkswagen Amarok does have CV joints fitted, especially in models equipped with front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive systems. CV joints, or constant velocity joints, are essential parts of the drivetrain that help transmit power smoothly from the transmission to the wheels, allowing for flexibility in movement as the vehicle drives, turns, and handles uneven terrain.

CV joints are usually found on front-wheel drive cars as part of the front axle assemblies but are also common in four-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles that have driven front wheels. The Amarok typically comes with either rear-wheel drive or 4Motion 4WD, and the models featuring the four-wheel drive system use CV joints on the front axle to accommodate the steering angle and suspension movements.

So why does the Amarok need CV joints? The key reason is because the front wheels must not only rotate to move the car forward but also pivot to steer. This means the front axles must handle both rotational force and steering angles. CV joints allow this combination of movements without causing any loss of power or wheel vibration. They maintain a constant rotational speed regardless of the axle angle, which improves driving smoothness and gear engagement.

Even in rear-wheel-drive configurations, the Amarok's rear axle usually features a simpler joint design like universal joints (U-joints) that handle power transmission through the drive shaft but are less flexible in angle movement compared to CV joints. This is because the rear axle in a 2WD Amarok generally doesn't need to handle steering angles or the same suspension articulation as the front axles in a 4WD system.

When it comes to engineered vehicles like the Amarok, CV joints are vital to maintain optimal drivability and comfort, especially for users who frequently drive on rough roads or take advantage of the 4WD system for off-roading. However, like all mechanical components, CV joints can wear out or get damaged over time, which is why understanding their maintenance is important.

Regular servicing of your 2017 Volkswagen Amarok's CV joints includes visual inspections and listening for potential signs of wear. A common sign of a faulty CV joint is a clicking or popping noise when turning the steering wheel, particularly noticeable during tight turns. Another indication is grease leaking from torn or worn CV boots, which are protective rubber covers that keep the joint lubricated and free of dirt and moisture.

Replacing or maintaining CV joints on the Amarok typically involves the following:

• Inspecting the CV boots during routine servicing for any cracks, splits, or leaks.
• Ensuring the joints are adequately lubricated, the grease is sealed inside the boot and critical for smooth function.
• Replacing damaged boots immediately to prevent dirt ingress, which can rapidly accelerate joint wear.
• If a CV joint is worn or damaged, replacement is recommended rather than trying to repair it, as worn CV joints can compromise vehicle handling and safety.

Because CV joints experience a lot of mechanical movement and stress, they are designed to be robust but are not indestructible. Australia's diverse driving conditions, from urban streets to rural tracks and offroad trails, can put extra strain on these components, particularly for drivers using the Amarok's 4Motion system extensively. Keeping an eye on the CV joints and boots during your regular maintenance checks can save time and money down the track by preventing catastrophic joint failure.

In the workshop, replacing a CV joint or axle assembly on a 2017 Amarok is a straightforward, though labour-intensive, process that requires lifting the vehicle, removing the wheel and axle components, and fitting a new joint or axles as necessary. Using genuine Volkswagen parts ensures correct fitment and longevity.

Ultimately, the CV joint is one of those parts that might be out of sight but should definitely not be out of mind if you want your Amarok to continue running smoothly and safely. Whether cruising through city traffic or powering through muddy tracks, well-maintained CV joints play an essential role in keeping your 2017 Volkswagen Amarok performing at its best.