Are you wondering why your Volkswagen always becomes uncomfortable or unstable when under a heavy load? Riding in your Volkswagen should be smooth and comfortable. But what happens when you begin to feel or hear vibrations each time you accelerate when carrying cargo or climbing a hill? This unsettling sign is frequently an indication of a vibrating drivetrain. Although the problem might sound complicated and scary, it’s not uncommon; it occurs quite frequently and is easily solvable as long as it is diagnosed early enough. Let’s find out some of the causes of a vibrating drivetrain in your Volkswagen automobile and how to go about it.

Common Reasons Why Your Drivetrain Vibrates

• Worn Driveshaft: One of the most frequent reasons for a vibrating VW is when the driveshaft is worn out or damaged. This important part transmits power from the engine to the wheels, and it gets affected by challenging road surfaces or simply due to mileage. A bent or out-of-balance drivetrain usually results in audible vibrations, particularly when your vehicle is under load.
• Worn Engine or Transmission Mounts: Another common culprit of vibrations is old/worn-out engine or transmission mounts. These mounts hold the drivetrain firmly and at the same time will act as absorbers of vibrations. When the engine gets old or deteriorates, the effectiveness of such systems reduces, and there is excessive drivetrain movement along with high vibrations.
• Problems with Universal Joints (U-Joints): One of the components of the driveshaft system that provide flexibility during rotation are called universal joints (U-joints). If the U-joints are worn out or loose, they generate vibrations that are most likely to be felt at high engine speeds.
• Faulty CV Joints: Another factor that is often associated with this issue is the wear and tear of CV (constant velocity) joints. Any wear or damage to the CV joints leads to the development of vibrations, especially when the car is loaded.
• Unbalanced or Damaged Tires: Although they are not drivetrain mechanisms, a vehicle with unbalanced or damaged tires may result in drivetrain-like vibrations. This is an easily missed symptom, but it should be considered when diagnosing vibrations and eliminated in the initial analysis.
• Contaminated Transmission Fluid: Another is low or contaminated transmission fluid. Transmission fluids should be sufficient in the reservoir and the fluid should be in good condition so as to enhance good running of the drivetrain. If the liquid level is low or there are some impurities, it is possible to have decreased efficiency and increased vibrations.

How To Repair A Vibrating Drivetrain

• Replace Worn CV Joints or Axles: If the CV joints are at fault, then they will have to be repaired or replaced, as the case may be. This is a common fix and can bring back normal functionality.
• Repair or Replace the Driveshaft: A damaged driveshaft or U-joints will require the services of a mechanic. In extreme cases, they may require repair or even replacement.
• Replace Motor Mounts and Align Wheels: In the case where the motor mounts are worn out, replacing them will greatly reduce vibrations. A basic wheel balancing and alignment exercise can address vibrations resulting from imbalances.
• Transmission Repairs: If the problem is with the transmission, take your car to a mechanic to repair or change the transmission system.

Bring Your Volkswagen To Master Mechanics Auto Repair For Drivetrain Repairs

A shaking or vibrating drivetrain can diminish the fun of driving your Volkswagen, but it doesn’t have to be a permanent issue. When it comes to solving problems in the drivetrain, expertise and experience become an important element. Master Mechanics Auto Repair is the shop you can trust for diagnosis and repair if you own a VW.

We are a Kalamazoo, MI-based company, and our aim is to offer the best services so that our clients can always keep their vehicles in good shape. We have also been of great help to European automobile owners from nearby places like Battle Creek and Portage, MI. Whether you need a drivetrain repair or routine maintenance, allow us to help you get the most out of your Volkswagen. Call us today to schedule an inspection or service.