2017-2024 Maserati Levante Axle Shaft Guide: Clicks, Vibrations, and Replacement Costs

Symptoms of a Failing Axle Shaft

When an axle shaft begins to fail, it typically provides clear audible and physical warnings. 🎬 Watch: 5 common symptoms of a failing CV axle The most common cause of failure is a torn or cracked rubber CV boot, which allows the protective grease to leak out and moisture and dirt to get in, destroying the joint. Paying attention to these symptoms can prevent a complete failure that could leave you stranded.

1. Clicking or Popping Noises When Turning

This is the most classic sign of a worn-out outer CV joint. You will typically hear a rhythmic clicking or popping sound that is most obvious during sharp, low-speed turns, like when navigating a parking lot or making a U-turn. The sound occurs because of excessive play that has developed in the joint's internal components. Often, a clicking noise when turning right indicates a problem with the left front axle, and vice-versa.

2. Vibration While Driving

A damaged or imbalanced axle shaft can cause a noticeable vibration felt through the steering wheel or the floor of the vehicle. This vibration usually gets more intense as vehicle speed increases and is often most pronounced during acceleration. If the vibration lessens or disappears when you let off the accelerator, it strongly points to a worn inner CV joint. A specific service campaign for some 2021-2022 Levante models was issued to address noise and vibration from front axles assembled with incorrect grease.

3. Knocking or Clunking Sounds

A heavy clunk or knock when you shift between Drive and Reverse, or when you accelerate or decelerate, points to severe wear in an inner or outer CV joint. This sound suggests significant internal damage, and the axle is close to failing completely. Some Maserati owners have also noted a light knock from the rear when starting slowly, which can sometimes be traced to movement between the rear axle splines and the wheel hub.

4. Grease on the Inside of the Wheel or Fender Liner

If you see dark, heavy grease splattered on the inside of your wheel, on the suspension components, or in the fender well, it's a sure sign that a CV boot has torn. The boot is a flexible rubber cover that holds grease in and keeps contaminants out. Once it rips, the grease is flung out as the axle spins, and the joint is left unprotected, 🎬 See why you shouldn't ignore these axle shaft symptoms leading to rapid wear and eventual failure.

Known Issues, Service Campaigns, and Recalls

While there are no formal NHTSA safety recalls specifically for axle shaft failure on the Levante, Maserati has issued internal service campaigns and there are other recalls that can cause similar symptoms.

Service Campaign 435: Front Half-Shaft Replacement

Maserati issued this service campaign for certain 2021-2022 Levante Trofeo and Modena S models. The campaign addresses an issue where the front axle shafts (half-shafts) may have been assembled with the wrong type of grease in the tripod junction (the inner CV joint). This defect can lead to noise and vibrations while driving. The fix involves replacing both front axle shafts and performing a wheel alignment.

Technical Service Bulletin MTB 24-23: Rear Differential Oil Seal Leaks

In May 2024, Maserati released a technical bulletin for all model years of the Levante concerning oil leaks from the rear differential's side/axle seals. If a leak is found here, this bulletin authorizes dealers to replace only the seals rather than the entire differential assembly, as long as the differential has no other issues like internal noise.

Related Recalls Causing Similar Symptoms

It's important to distinguish axle problems from other issues. Several recalls on the 2017 Levante caused symptoms like stalling or shifting to neutral at low speeds, which could be confused with a drivetrain problem. These were primarily due to engine software issues and were addressed by recalls 16V936000 and 17V161000.

Buying a Used Maserati Levante Axle Shaft

A used OEM axle shaft can be a smart purchase, offering factory quality for significantly less than a new part. However, careful inspection is critical to ensure you get a reliable part.

What to Physically Inspect

• CV Boots are Key: The single most important thing to check is the condition of the rubber CV boots at both ends of the axle. Squeeze and flex the boots, looking for any cracks, splits, pinholes, or signs of dry rot. If a boot is torn, the joint is contaminated and should be considered bad.
• Check for Joint Play: Hold the shaft and try to move the joint in and out and side to side. There should be very little play. A loose, sloppy joint is worn out.
• Look for Damage and Rust: Inspect the shaft itself for any dents, bends, or heavy corrosion that could affect its balance or strength. Check the splines on both ends for damage or excessive wear.
• Confirm Originality: Look for any OEM markings or part numbers. A genuine used Maserati axle is preferable to a cheap new aftermarket part, which often uses inferior materials that wear out quickly.

Cost Breakdown for Axle Shaft Replacement

Prices can vary based on location and which axle needs replacement (front axles are often more labor-intensive). The following are estimates to help understand the value of a used OEM part.

Replacement Overview

Replacing a Levante axle shaft is a moderately difficult job that can be done by an experienced DIY mechanic, but it requires proper tools and safety procedures.

• Difficulty: 4/5
• Estimated Time: 2.5 hours
• DIY Feasible: Yes, for advanced DIYers

The basic process involves lifting the vehicle, removing the wheel, unbolting the large axle nut in the center of the hub, separating the ball joint on the steering knuckle to allow the hub to swing out, and then carefully prying the inner end of the axle out of the differential. Installation is the reverse of removal. A wheel alignment is recommended after replacement, and it was a required step in Maserati's service campaign.

Frequently Asked Questions