Access to a reliable vehicle is something that many drivers take for granted. Modern cars and trucks are complex machines made of many different components. Each of these components must be maintained properly in order for the vehicle to function safely.

You may be familiar with some of the components in your vehicle, but you might not give much thought to the driveshaft. The driveshaft is responsible for transferring torque from the transmission to the axles of a vehicle.

Here are three signs that you should be watching for to help you determine when you need to invest in driveshaft repairs.

1. Vibrations

You shouldn't feel any type of vibration coming from the axle of your vehicle when the car or truck is in motion. If you do notice vibrations, this could be an indication that your driveshaft is starting to fail.

The vibrations caused by a failing driveshaft tend to intensify as your vehicle accelerates. This is due to the fact that a failing driveshaft cannot maintain a solid connection with your vehicle's axles.

The loose connection allows for excessive movement of the driveshaft. Eventually, this excessive movement can lead to a total driveshaft failure.

Be sure to have your mechanic evaluate your driveshaft as soon as you notice vibrations while driving.

2. Clunking Noises

The last thing you want to hear as you are traveling down the road is a strange sound coming from your vehicle. Clunking noises can be indicative of driveshaft damage.

Since the driveshaft of your vehicle is exposed to a tremendous amount of torque on a regular basis, structural damage can often occur. Clunking sounds are created when the misshapen parts within the driveshaft make contact with one another.

It's important that you have your mechanic make the necessary repairs to prevent further driveshaft damage as soon as you notice any type of clunking sound while driving.

3. Resistance When Turning

You should pay close attention to the way your vehicle feels while turning when monitoring the condition of your driveshaft.

A failing driveshaft will be unable to supply the amount of torque required to keep your car moving smoothly through a turn. This lack of torque can create some resistance and heaviness when you attempt to change the direction in which your vehicle is traveling.

Your mechanic will be able to evaluate the condition of the driveshaft and determine if this resistance is due to driveshaft damage. 

Contact a mechanic to learn more about driveshaft repairs.