Parts for your 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer-Universal joints

1999 Mitsubishi Lancer universal-joints: are they actually used?

Short answer: on the regular 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer sold in Australia and New Zealand (CE/CK front-wheel-drive models), universal-joints aren’t part of the driveline. Technical sources including the Mitsubishi Lancer CE/CK Workshop Manual (1996–2003), the Mitsubishi ASA/CAPS parts catalogue for 1999 CE models, and the Haynes Mitsubishi Lancer 1992–2005 manual all show these cars use front driveshafts with constant velocity (CV) joints and have no rear propeller shaft or cross-type universal joints.

That means “universal-joints” aren’t a service item on the typical 1999 Lancer sedan, coupe, or hatch. If there’s a vibration or clunk on take-off, it’s more likely related to CV joints, engine/gearbox mounts, or suspension bushes rather than a propshaft U-joint that simply doesn’t exist on these FWD models.

• FWD layout: The transaxle drives two front half-shafts with CV joints, no rear differential or prop shaft is fitted.
• CV joints do the articulation: CVs handle steering angle and suspension travel smoothly, which is why they’re used up front.
• What about the steering? There is a small steering intermediate-shaft universal joint, but that’s separate from driveline “universal-joints” people usually mean.

Exception noted: the high-performance, all-wheel-drive Lancer Evolution of that era (e.g., Evo VI, 1999) does have a propeller shaft with cross-type universal joints. For those cars, periodic checks for play, rust-coloured dust around the bearing caps, and vibration under load are sensible. Many Evo propshaft U-joints are non-greaseable, if worn, the fix is usually replacement rather than routine greasing—follow the Mitsubishi workshop manual for specs and procedures.

Does a 1999 Mitsubishi Lancer have universal-joints?

For mainstream CE/CK FWD models, no. They use CV joints on the front driveshafts and have no rear prop shaft. The notable exception is the AWD Lancer Evolution VI, which uses universal-joints on its propeller shaft.

There’s a clunk on take-off—could it be a universal-joint on my ’99 Lancer?

On FWD CE/CK cars, it’s unlikely. Check the outer and inner CV joints (look for split boots and lost grease), engine and transmission mounts, lower control arm bushes, and sway bar links. If it’s an AWD Evo, also inspect the prop shaft U-joints and centre bearing.

What should be serviced instead of universal-joints on a 1999 Lancer?

Keep an eye on CV boots for splits, grease fling, or clicking on full lock—address promptly to avoid axle damage. It’s also worth checking the steering intermediate-shaft joint for stiffness or corrosion and following the workshop manual for any lubrication or replacement intervals.