drivaxel

Drivaxel is the axle that transmits engine torque to the wheels, enabling propulsion. It is a central part of a vehicle's drivetrain and, in many designs, houses the differential and the half shafts that connect to the wheels. Depending on the configuration, not all axles are driven; the axles that do not receive power are non-driven or dead axles.

In front‑wheel drive cars, the drive axle is typically integrated into the transaxle at the front of the vehicle, and power is delivered to the front wheels through constant‑velocity joints. In rear‑wheel drive cars, torque is sent via a prop shaft to a rear differential, which distributes power to the rear wheels through half shafts. All‑wheel drive or four‑wheel drive systems use two drive axles (front and rear) and often a center transfer case or center differential to distribute torque between axles; some configurations include locking differentials for enhanced traction.

Common components include the axle housing, differential, drive shafts or half shafts, and CV joints on independent suspension setups. The drive axle requires lubrication through differential oil and regular inspection for leaks, wear, and boot integrity around CV joints. Problems with the drive axle can include abnormal noise, vibration, loss of propulsion, or reduced traction.

See also: axle, differential, CV joint, driveshaft, transaxle.