Lexus cars, like every other vehicle, can encounter some vehicle faults. Even though these cars are made for comfortable rides and great performance, certain problems can still arise with use or other conditions. Drivetrain failure is one of such problems and it can be challenging to deal with.
Drivetrains in cars are necessary to transfer force from a car’s engine to the wheels of the car to ensure a smooth drive. Identifying when your car has a drivetrain issue can help you take proper care of your car and prevent this issue from getting worse. This guide will show you the common signs of drivetrain failure in a Lexus and how to handle them.
What are the Causes of Drivetrain Failure in Lexus Cars
While there are several reasons why your Lexus can experience a drivetrain problem, here are the 3 most common causes;
1. Loose U-joints
U-joints are metallic pieces that connect the drivetrain to its essential parts, aiding its function. However, if any of the joints get loose, the drivetrain will no longer be held in place, making the drivetrain’s movement uncontrollable and this can affect the car’s system.
2. Faulty spark plugs
A faulty spark plug can cause failure in your Lexus drivetrain. Spark plugs are important for your car’s engine to fire up and start. However, a problem with a car’s spark plug can affect the engine and cause damage. A damaged engine will affect the drivetrain of a car.
3. Transmission oil leaks
The drivetrain is an essential component of a car’s transmission system. Anything that affects the transmission can therefore cause a problem with the car’s drivetrain. One of the common problems that is usually associated with a car’s transmission is leakage in the transmission oil that helps to lubricate transmission parts. If there isn’t sufficient oil for lubrication, these parts grind against each other, affecting the drivetrain.
Signs that Your Lexus’ Drivetrain Has Some Problems
Here are some signs to notify you that your car’s drivetrain has some issues.
Excessive shaking or vibration
This is a common sign of a faulty drivetrain. You may experience serious shaking or vibration in your car when you change gears or accelerate. If this happens, it is a sign that your drivetrain could be faulty.
Weird noises
Sometimes strange noises accompany the shaking or vibrations you experience in your car as you change gears. You may hear grinding or clunking sounds to show that the car’s drivetrain has a fault.
Hard gear changing
Another sign of a faulty drivetrain is difficulty in handling or changing the gear of your vehicle. This can be due to any of the causes mentioned above.
No power or delayed acceleration
If you are finding it difficult to push your car through the road or accelerate, then the drivetrain can be faulty. A faulty drivetrain cannot transfer sufficient power from the engine to the wheels of the car; hence, your car may experience slow acceleration in this case.
Drivetrain warning light
Your car can also warn you to show you that your drivetrain likely has a fault. This light can come on in your car’s dashboard based on any of the causes discussed above and you can get immediate help for your car.
Burning smell
If you notice a burning smell when driving your car, this can be due to a number of factors including a bad drivetrain. A faulty drivetrain can affect a car’s transmission, leading to overheating. Overheated fluid can then begin to smell like burning material.
The Best Repair Shop in Washington for Your Lexus
If you ever notice signs of damage in your car, like intense vibration or shaking when driving, you should immediately contact a professional mechanic to help mitigate the problem. Fixing a faulty drivetrain immediately can prevent the situation from getting worse and needing more repair money.
Bruce Cox Imports is an automobile shop that is well-equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to handle repairs and maintenance needs of your car. Whether you want to schedule an inspection service or you want to make a full-round upgrade to your car, we are available to serve you.
As a car owner in Ferndale, Lynden, or Bellingham, you have the best automobile shop to put your car in the best shape.
* Black Lexus LX Car image credit goes to: YuriyVlasenko.