What is the purpose of CV joints?

The purpose of CV (Constant Velocity) joints is to enable smooth steering during turns. These joints are crucial components in front-wheel-drive vehicles and many all-wheel-drive systems, connecting the drive shafts to the wheels while accommodating the up-and-down motions of the suspension and the side-to-side motion required for steering.

When a vehicle turns, the outside wheel must cover a larger distance than the inside wheel. CV joints allow for this difference in rotation speed while maintaining a constant velocity, ensuring that power is effectively transmitted to the wheels without losing traction or stability. This smooth transmission of power during turns is essential for the handling and control of the vehicle, making them integral to the performance of vehicles with independent suspension.