How Long Can I Drive With Bad CV Joints?

Until You See Grease Near Wheel Area

One of the first signs of CV joints going bad is when the caps of the CV joints break from the structure. This will cause grease to accumulate in the CV joint area, which is located between the front wheels of the car. If you see such an occurrence, take the car for maintenance immediately.

If you see grease near your wheel area, take your car in for maintenance.
When You Hear Clicking and Popping Sounds

When the CV joints go bad, you will hear a popping or a clicking sound coming from the steering wheel. The more damaged the CV joints become, the louder and more intense the sound will be. Each time you turn the steering wheel, the clicking or popping sound will resonate. This indicates serious damage.

Popping and clicking sounds coming from the steering wheel may indicate serious damage.
Bottom Line

CV joints can break easily and rapidly. Within a matter of weeks, the CV joints can become so bad that the maintenance cost will be very high. The sooner you fix the damaged CV joints, the lower the cost will be. Therefore, regularly examine the CV joint area to check for grease buildup. If you see no buildup, but begin to hear clicking or popping sounds, have the car fixed.

Early maintenance and repair can help you avoid a high maintenance cost.