Driveshafts on most rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles are very durable. Most late-model driveshafts are not serviceable and do not have any lubrication points. But, this does not mean that they can't wear, or even fail.

Driveshaft problems can be spotted from the moment you put the vehicle in gear to pull it into a bay. As the power is transmitted from the transmission to the rear axle, the slack from worn or damaged components is taken up resulting in a sudden crunch or pop.

The SUV comes in two- and four-wheel drive (4WD). Because of this, drivelines come in many different configurations. On two-wheel drive SUVs, you will find:

Single shaft with two Cardan universal joints;
Single shaft with double Cardan on one end and one Cardan on the other end; or
Split shaft with three Cardan and center carrier.

On 4WD vehicles, you have the above configurations, as well as:

Front driveshaft with two Cardan universal joints;
Front shaft with double Cardan on one end and single Cardan on the other end;
Older 4WD outer half shafts with Cardan universal joints; and
Newer 4WD with boot-covered constant velocity joints.

Symptoms of Cardan Universal Joint Problems

There are different things to look for when you suspect universal joint problems:

The cling and crunch sound when going from drive to reverse with the brake on;
Rust-colored dust around th...