What could cause the left drive shaft to vibrate when accelerating?

Tiny
KAOMA
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 MAZDA 6
  • 2.0L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 241,000 MILES
My car has a vibration on the left drive shaft. This vibration happens when accelerating either at low or high speeds. The vibration is always there, the moment I stop accelerating, the vibration stops and runs smoothly, when I start accelerating I can I feel the vibration. I have tried to change the inner CV joint, outer CV joint, the drive shaft and today I went as far has change the differ in the gearbox, despite doing all this I still have the vibration. Please note that this problem started last year after I replaced the gearbox. Please help, how can I fix this problem?
Saturday, July 22nd, 2023 AT 11:32 AM

5 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 42,959 POSTS
If you have already replaced the inner and outer CV joints, the drive shaft, and the differential in the gearbox, yet the vibration on the left drive shaft persists, there are a few other potential causes to consider:

Wheel Bearings: Faulty or worn wheel bearings can cause vibrations, especially during acceleration. A failing wheel bearing on the left side could be the source of the vibration you're experiencing.

Engine or Transmission Mounts: Worn or damaged engine or transmission mounts can allow excessive movement of the drivetrain components, leading to vibrations.

Axle Shaft: There may be an issue with the left axle shaft itself, such as an imbalance or other damage.

Suspension Components: Problems with suspension components, such as control arms, bushings, or struts, can also cause vibrations during acceleration.

Wheel Alignment or Balance: Incorrect wheel alignment or unbalanced wheels can create vibrations that are felt during acceleration.

Drivetrain Alignment: If the components of the drivetrain are not properly aligned or installed, it can result in vibrations.

Since you've already performed multiple repairs and replacements related to the left drive shaft, it's advisable to have the vehicle thoroughly inspected by a qualified mechanic who can check for the above potential causes. They may also perform a detailed inspection of the drivetrain and suspension components to identify any issues that might be contributing to the vibration.

Additionally, the fact that the problem started after replacing the gearbox could indicate that there might be an issue with the installation or alignment of the new gearbox.
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Saturday, July 22nd, 2023 AT 4:44 PM
Tiny
KAOMA
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Hi Ken, thanks for your response. Sorry I did not mention this in my first post. The wheel bearing was replaced, the suspension was replaced and axle was replaced, despite this, the problem did not go away.
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Sunday, July 23rd, 2023 AT 8:24 AM
Tiny
KEN L
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  • 42,959 POSTS
I would rotate the tires front to back, I have seen a tire come apart internally and it will cause this kind of problem.
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Monday, July 24th, 2023 AT 10:55 AM
Tiny
KAOMA
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  • 13 POSTS
Alright I will try that, though I just replaced the tires like 2 months ago. Thank you
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Monday, July 24th, 2023 AT 11:26 AM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 42,959 POSTS
Please let us know how it goes.
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Tuesday, July 25th, 2023 AT 6:35 PM

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