Commonly, vibrations that increase with vehicle speed, and a rapid chirping noise are very evident when a
universal joint (U-joint) fails. The chirping and vibration may change intensity as the vehicle passes over bumps in the road. As the problem progresses, the drive shaft may make a loud clunk anytime the vehicle is put into reverse or drive. Vibrations, and wobbling will eventually lead to leaky seals on the transmission tail shaft, or transfer case. When the U-joint has reached total failure, it may bind and break, which can allow the drive shaft to fall off the vehicle while driving.
