The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word AXLES
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
A
X
L
E
S
Buddy explains!

The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does AXLES mean?
AXLES noun- Shoulder.
- The pin or spindle on which a wheel revolves, or which revolves with a wheel.
- A transverse bar or shaft connecting the opposite wheels of a car or carriage; an axletree.
- An axis.