Mazda CV Axle Buyer's Guide
Your higher-mileage Mazda vehicle may eventually experience CV axle wear. CV axles see constant wear and tear, and it's normal for them to break down over time. We’ve put together a comprehensive guide to understanding CV joints and CV axles, including topics like:
- Does my Mazda have a CV joint..or a CV axle? What's the difference?
- How do I diagnose a failing CV joint in my Mazda?
- Are OEM CV axles better than aftermarket?
- Can I replace a constant velocity (CV) axle myself?
Does My Mazda Have A CV Joint?
All modern Mazdas have Constant Velocity (CV) joints. A CV axle, also called a half-shaft, is an axle assembly consisting of an inner and an outer CV joint. CV axles are used on all front-wheel drive (FWD) vehicles. They transfer power from the transaxle differential to the front wheels. CV joints are required on FWD cars to accommodate the motion of the front suspension and the steering of the front wheels.
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) vehicles can also have CV axles, like the Mazda MX-5 Miata and RX-8. Rear CV axles allow for independent rear suspension movement versus a solid rear axle. CV axles connect the rear differential to the rear wheels and allow the suspension to move freely on each side.
Learn more about identifying types of CV joints and axles.
How To Diagnose A Failing CV Joint
Constant Velocity (CV) joints take a lot of abuse over their lifetime. It's likely that CV joints will wear out sooner or later depending on vehicle mileage and operating conditions. Knowing the early symptoms of CV joint wear can prevent more costly repairs down the road. Common symptoms of a failing CV joint include:
- CV boot leak
- Excessive noises
- Unusual vibrations
If you’re unsure if your axle is bad, read our blog post on how to diagnose a failing CV joint.
Are OEM CV Axles Better Than Aftermarket?
If you need a new CV axle for your Mazda, you might be considering an aftermarket replacement. Reasons to choose a genuine OEM Mazda CV axle include:
- Axles designed and engineered for your specific Mazda
- Less cost over time because of higher quality and better reliability
- Easier buying experience to identify the correct replacement axle
- A full 12-month warranty OEM Mazda CV axles
Purchasing a genuine OEM Mazda CV axle is as simple as searching our website or calling us. We can immediately identify the exact replacement axle for your Mazda vehicle. Learn more about why OEM CV axles are better than aftermarket in this article.
How To Replace A Constant Velocity (CV) Axle
If you are comfortable with your skills and have the right tools, you can certainly replace your worn CV axles yourself. You can read more about the basic steps on how to replace a CV axle here. Consider these tips when replacing your own CV axle:
- Refer to a repair manual specific to your Mazda vehicle.
- Always follow safety precautions, including eye protection.
- Take pictures as you work to remember how parts are installed.
- Keep parts and fasteners organized to ensure they go back in the right place.
CV Axles And CV Joints From REAL Mazda Parts
At RealMazdaParts.com we have the right OEM CV axles for your specific Mazda model. All OEM parts are backed by Mazda's manufacturer warranty and if you have any questions, we’re always here to help. Don't hesitate to contact us if you need help finding the right parts for your Mazda.