How Your Mini’s Faulty Drive-Axle Boots Can be Fixed by the Experts in San Jose

MINIs are sophisticated, stylish, and great on fuel economy. Their compact, sporty design makes them fun to drive, and they turn heads. Taking proper care of it is important, and to do so, it requires a technician that has the knowledge needed to do it right. Here at Fast Lane European, we specialize in MINIs, and we provide top-notch service and repairs every time.

The best way to take care of your MINI is by staying current on your service schedule and having regular maintenance performed. In doing so, you will help to ensure that your MINI runs great for years to come. When you have your car in for service, your technician may notice that you have a faulty drive-axle boot. If this is the case, it is a good idea to have the boot replaced before any additional damage occurs.

WHAT IS A DRIVE-AXLE BOOT?

The drive-axle boot is a rubber cover that is used to protect the drive-axle joint. The boot is also referred to as the CV boot. This boot keeps out dirt and debris while keeping in the grease that is used to lubricate the drive-axle.

The drive-axle, also known as the CV axle, is the part that is used to transfer the power from the transmission to the wheels. This power is what turns the wheels and moves the vehicle forward.

WHY DO DRIVE-AXLE BOOTS FAIL?

Since drive-axle boots are made from rubber, they can degrade over time and dry out. This leads to cracking and tearing. Once this happens, the joint is now vulnerable to outside elements.

DO YOU NEED TO REPLACE A DAMAGED DRIVE-AXLE BOOT RIGHT AWAY?

Yes, you should have the drive-axle boot replaced as soon as the problem has been identified. As mentioned above, the boot keeps out unwanted dirt and debris and keeps the grease in so that the axle is kept lubricated. It is much cheaper to replace the boot and keep the drive-axle protected than wait for the drive axle to be damaged.

SYMPTOMS OF A BAD DRIVE-AXLE BOOT

CLICKING NOISES

You may hear weird clicking noises when making a turn. This is a serious symptom. These noises are coming from the loose axle. The damage has probably occurred due to a damaged boot. Drive-axles are typically not able to be serviced and will need to be replaced.

LEAKING GREASE

Once a drive-boot cracks, the first symptom that you will probably notice is a grease leak. The grease usually leaks on the inside of the wheel. Sometimes the axle will fling the grease back on the underside of the vehicle.

VIBRATIONS

If the drive-axle boot has failed, it is allowing dirt and debris to enter into the joint. The vibrations happen when these unwanted particles are causing damage.

WE CAN FIX YOUR FAULTY DRIVE-AXLE BOOT

If you are in the San Jose, CA area, the technicians at Fast Lane European are here to help. If the drive-axle boot in your MINI is failing or has completely failed, give us a call to schedule an appointment. You do not have to take your car to a dealership to have it serviced or repaired. We offer the same dealership quality service without the high prices.

Our certified mechanics are highly knowledgeable in European cars. We have the equipment needed to properly diagnose and fix your vehicle right the first time.

We offer a variety of MINI Services, including but not limited to:

• Tire rotation and wheel alignments
• Brake system maintenance
• Steering wheel issues
• Engine issues
• Full points inspection
• Road tests
• Turbo troubleshooting and maintenance

FREE SECOND OPINION

If you have had your MINI inspected somewhere else, bring in their recommendation. We can give you a free second opinion. We will perform a visual inspection and either confirm or deny their recommendation. This is for visual inspections only.

CONTACT US TODAY

Whether you are in need of drive-axle boot repair, regular maintenance, or modifications, Fast Lane European can help. We service Volvos, MINIs, and BMWs. We are located at 3585 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose, CA. Stop by and see us today or call to schedule your appointment at 408-985-1000.