Parts for your 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer-Universal joints

1998 Mitsubishi Lancer universal joints — are they actually used?

Short answer: on mainstream 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer models sold in Australia and New Zealand (CE series, front‑wheel drive), universal joints in the driveline aren’t fitted or serviced. Technical references including the Mitsubishi Lancer CE Workshop Manual (Driveline and Axle sections), the Mitsubishi ASA parts catalogue for CE FWD variants, and common aftermarket manuals (e.g., Haynes for Lancer 1992–2005) all show a transaxle with two front driveshafts using constant‑velocity (CV) joints, and no propeller shaft or cross‑type universal joints in the drivetrain.

Why no universal joints? The CE Lancer is front‑wheel drive, so there’s no long propeller shaft running to a rear differential. Instead, each front axle uses CV joints that can handle larger steering angles while keeping constant rotational speed. Traditional universal joints (U‑joints) are great on longitudinal prop shafts in rear‑ or all‑wheel‑drive setups, but they introduce speed fluctuation at angle and aren’t ideal for front steering axles. That’s why the Lancer uses CVs up front and doesn’t need driveline U‑joints.

There is a small caveat: the steering column typically has an intermediate shaft with a small universal joint coupling. It’s not the same part people mean when they talk about driveline U‑joints, and it’s usually sealed-for-life. If it seizes or develops play, the fix is generally replacement of the intermediate shaft assembly rather than servicing a separate cross joint.

Owners chasing clunks or vibrations on take‑off in a 1998 Lancer should look to the usual suspects: worn outer or inner CV joints, split CV boots, tired engine or gearbox mounts, or out‑of‑round tyres and wheels. If the vehicle is actually an Evolution (CP9A) all‑wheel‑drive model from the same era, that’s a different story — those cars do have a prop shaft assembly with joints that need periodic inspection for play, binding or dry needle bearings. But for standard CE front‑drive Lancers, universal joints simply aren’t part of the drivetrain or regular service list.

• Technical basis: Mitsubishi Lancer CE Workshop Manual (1996–2003) — Driveline/Axle specifies FWD transaxle with CV half‑shafts, no prop shaft/U‑joints.
• Mitsubishi ASA/parts listings for CE FWD show no propeller shaft assembly, AWD Evolution variants list a prop shaft with joints.
• Aftermarket manuals (e.g., Haynes) describe CV joint servicing for FWD Lancer and make no provision for driveline U‑joints.

Popular questions

Does a 1998 Mitsubishi Lancer have universal joints?

Standard CE front‑wheel‑drive models do not use driveline universal joints. They run CV joints on the front axles and have no propeller shaft.

Only the all‑wheel‑drive Evolution variants from this era use a prop shaft with joints, so unless it’s an Evo, U‑joints aren’t relevant to servicing.

What’s causing a clunk or vibration if there are no U‑joints?

Common culprits are worn outer CV joints (clicking on full lock), tired inner tripod joints (shudder on launch), split CV boots losing grease, or perished engine/gearbox mounts. Wheel balance and tyre issues can also mimic driveline vibration.

A quick visual check of CV boots, then a road test on lock, usually points the technician in the right direction.

Is there a steering universal joint on a 1998 Lancer?

Yes, the intermediate steering shaft typically uses a small U‑joint coupling. It’s not a regular service item and is generally replaced as a unit if it develops stiffness or play.

Symptoms include notchy steering or a vague on‑centre feel. Any corrosion or binding calls for replacement rather than lubrication.