Parts for your 1992 Nissan Primera-Universal joints

1992 Nissan Primera universal joints – are they actually used?

Short answer: for a 1992 Nissan Primera (P10), a driveline universal joint isn’t a relevant service item. The Primera is front‑wheel drive, and its front driveshafts use constant‑velocity (CV) joints rather than prop‑shaft style universal joints. That’s why most catalogues won’t list a traditional U‑joint for this model.

Technical sources back this up. The Nissan Primera P10 Factory Service Manual details front drive shafts with inner tripod and outer Rzeppa/Birfield CV joints and no propeller shaft on FWD models. The Infiniti G20 (P10 platform) FSM shows the same layout. The Haynes Nissan Primera 1990–1999 manual also specifies CV joints at both ends of each front driveshaft, with service procedures for CV boots and axles, not U‑joints.

• Nissan Primera P10 Factory Service Manual (Driveline/Axle sections): FWD models use inner tripod and outer CV joints, no propeller shaft listed.
• Infiniti G20 (P10) Factory Service Manual: FWD driveline with CV joints only, no prop‑shaft U‑joints.
• Haynes Nissan Primera 1990–1999: Driveshafts chapter covers CV joints/boots, no U‑joint service on FWD models.

Why no universal joints? A U‑joint causes speed fluctuation at larger operating angles and can introduce vibration. FWD cars like the Primera steer and drive through the same front wheels, so they rely on CV joints, which keep the rotational speed constant even at sharp steering and suspension angles. That lets the car turn smoothly under power without shudder or bind.

There can still be a small universal joint on the steering column lower shaft, but that’s a steering component, not a driveline prop‑shaft joint. If a parts search brings up “universal joints” for a 1992 Primera, it’s usually a mismatch or referencing the steering coupling rather than the driveshafts.

What should owners service instead? Keep an eye on the CV boots and grease. Split boots fling grease and let grit in, quickly wearing the joint. Typical symptoms of a failing CV joint are a clicking or clacking on turns (outer joint), vibration or shudder on acceleration (often inner joint), or visible grease around the inner guard or wheel. Catching a torn boot early and replacing it can save the joint, once it’s noisy, a rebuilt or new driveshaft assembly is the go. During regular servicing, check boot condition, clamps, shaft play, and retorque the hub nut to spec after any front hub work.

• Does a 1992 Nissan Primera have universal joints?

  No for the driveline. The P10 Primera is front‑wheel drive and uses CV joints on the front axles, not prop‑shaft U‑joints. There may be a small steering column universal joint, but that’s unrelated to the driveshafts.

• What should be serviced instead of universal joints on a Primera?

  Inspect CV boots for splits, check for grease leakage, listen for clicking on turns, and feel for acceleration shudder. Replace damaged boots promptly, if noise is present, consider a complete driveshaft replacement.

• How can someone tell if a CV joint is failing on a 1992 Primera?

  Outer CV joints click when turning under throttle, while inner joints can cause vibration or a hop on straight‑line acceleration. Grease splatter around the wheel or subframe is another giveaway of a torn boot.