GKN has highlighted the important safety role played by driveshafts and the importance of like for like OE quality when it comes to replacement. The company points out that original components often contain vital internal functions that are essential for safety and durability.

GKN says that many cheaper aftermarket parts are often poor quality imitations of the originals. Producers often lack the OE knowledge required to match a part, especially in areas such as transmitting torque, often make errors in the hardening process and use low-quality steel.

GKN are the manufacturers of more than 40% of the driveshafts supplied globally as vehicle original equipment. Their aftermarket parts are manufactured exclusively in accordance with the specifications of the vehicle manufacturers and subject to stringent quality controls in production. 

GKN points out that the requirements placed on safety critical components such as drive shafts increases with every generation. As such the company is developing new OE technology such the SX joint "Countertrack". It says in the future it will be the only OE supplier which is also able to supply the new CV joint generation into the repair market.

The company has issued a driveshaft safety check list for garages:

• Only install driveshafts or joints which are the same joint type as the original part.
• Use brand-name products of the original equipment manufacturer of driveshafts (e.g. GKN/SPIDAN or GKN/LÖBRO).
• Comply with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
• When replacing a joint boot, check to see if the joint itself is damaged. If in doubt, replace it.
• Always use new accessories such as boots, grease, bolts and snap rings.
• Always use the correct installation tools.