Front and Rear Axles, Axle Housings, Housing Braces & Components

What Is the Function of the Car Axle?

The car axle is a vital component of your vehicle's drivetrain, responsible for several crucial functions. Here's what you need to know about the role of a car axle:

- **Transmitting Power:** One of the primary functions of a car axle is to transmit power from the engine and transmission to the vehicle's wheels. It does this by connecting the wheels to the differential, allowing them to rotate and move the vehicle forward or backward.

- **Supporting Vehicle Weight:** Car axles bear the weight of the vehicle and its occupants. They distribute this weight evenly to the wheels, ensuring stability and proper contact with the road.

- **Absorbing Road Irregularities:** Car axles also play a part in absorbing shocks and vibrations from the road. This contributes to a smoother and more comfortable ride for passengers.

- **Maintaining Wheel Alignment:** Axles help maintain proper wheel alignment, ensuring that the vehicle's wheels are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the road. This is essential for safe and predictable handling.

In most passenger vehicles, there are two types of axles: front axles and rear axles. Front axles are responsible for transmitting power to the front wheels, while rear axles transmit power to the rear wheels.

Does a Car Have 2 or 4 Axles?

In a typical passenger vehicle, you will find either two or four axles, depending on the drivetrain configuration. Here's a breakdown:

- **Two Axles (Front-Wheel Drive):** Many compact and midsize cars, as well as some larger vehicles, use a front-wheel-drive (FWD) configuration. In FWD vehicles, there are two axles: a front axle that powers the front wheels and a rear axle that is essentially a dead axle, providing support but not power.

- **Four Axles (Four-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive):** Four-wheel-drive (4WD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicles have four axles. In these vehicles, power is transmitted to all four wheels, which requires two front axles and two rear axles.

It's important to note that trucks, SUVs, and off-road vehicles may have more complex axle configurations, such as solid front and rear axles in some 4WD systems. The number and type of axles your car has depend on its make, model, and drivetrain.

How Much Does a Car Axle Cost?

The cost of a car axle can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of vehicle, the axle's location (front or rear), and whether you're purchasing an OEM or aftermarket axle. Here's a general price range to give you an idea:

- **Front Axle (OEM):** For an OEM front axle replacement, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

- **Front Axle (Aftermarket):** Aftermarket front axles are typically more affordable, ranging from $100 to $300 or more.

- **Rear Axle (OEM):** OEM rear axles can range from $300 to $800 or higher, depending on the vehicle.

- **Rear Axle (Aftermarket):** Aftermarket rear axles are available in the range of $200 to $500 or more.

Keep in mind that the cost of axle replacement may also include labor charges if you have a professional mechanic install the new axle. Additionally, the price can vary significantly based on the vehicle's make and model, so it's best to consult with an automotive expert for an accurate estimate.