Does an inner axle supposed to have up & down play

Hi, this is Bo, an auto expert on RepairPal's Car Genius team! You're right on the money—an inner axle, or CV joint, should have some in-and-out play for proper movement, but up-and-down play usually signals trouble. Excessive up-and-down movement often points to a worn-out CV joint, bearing, or differential bushing, which can lead to vibration, noise, and accelerated wear on other parts if left unchecked. If you’re feeling or hearing anything unusual while driving, it’s best to address it sooner rather than later. A little play is normal, but too much can cause bigger problems down the road. A quick inspection of the joint and surrounding components should give you a clear picture of what needs replacing. If you need any further advice or if you'd like any help finding a trusted RepairPal shop in your area, please feel free to call us at 877-913-1554!