Parts for your 1999 Nissan Primera-Driveshafts

1999 Nissan Primera driveshafts

Driveshafts are absolutely fitted to the 1999 Nissan Primera (P11/P11-144). Technical references including the Nissan Primera P11 Factory Service Manual (Front Axle/Final Drive sections), the Nissan FAST parts catalogue, and the Haynes Nissan Primera 1990–2002 manual all show left and right front driveshaft assemblies with constant velocity (CV) joints, and on many variants an intermediate shaft with a support bearing on the right-hand side to help curb torque steer.

On this front‑wheel‑drive Primera, the driveshafts transfer engine torque from the transaxle to the front wheels while allowing for suspension movement and steering angle. Each shaft uses inner and outer CV joints so the wheels can move up and down and turn left/right without vibration. Where fitted, the right‑hand intermediate shaft helps equalise shaft lengths for smoother take‑off and better steering feel.

As part of routine servicing, driveshafts don’t have a fixed replacement interval, condition is the guide. It’s smart practice to inspect the CV boots at each service (around every 10,000–15,000 kilometres). Any splits, perishing, or grease flung around the inner guard or under the bonnet means the boot has failed and the joint can quickly wear if not addressed. A light click on full lock usually points to an outer joint, while shudder under load may indicate an inner joint.

• Symptoms to watch: clicking on turns, vibration on acceleration, clunks when taking off, grease spray near the wheel or subframe, torn or oily boots.
• Service tips: replace torn boots promptly, if the joint has been noisy or run dry, a complete shaft assembly is often the most reliable fix.

When replacing a driveshaft, use new circlips and a new hub/lock nut, torque the hub nut to the Factory Service Manual spec for the exact variant (typical P11 figures are in the 220–300 Nm range), and stake the nut. After removal/refit, check the transaxle oil level as a little fluid can be lost when a shaft is withdrawn. A wheel alignment usually isn’t required if only the lower arm/ball joint was separated, but it’s good practice to check tyre wear and alignment afterwards. Quality moly CV grease and OEM‑quality boots help the repair last. With periodic boot checks and prompt attention to leaks or noises, Primera driveshafts commonly run well past 150,000–250,000 kilometres.

How can someone tell if a 1999 Primera driveshaft or CV joint is failing?

Typical signs are clicking or popping on full lock, vibration under acceleration, a thud taking off, or grease splattered around the wheel arch. A torn CV boot is an early warning that the joint may soon wear if not resealed and regreased.

Is it better to replace just the CV boot or the whole driveshaft?

If the boot has only just split and the joint is quiet with no play, a new boot and fresh grease can be fine. If there’s clicking, rust contamination, or heavy wear, a complete shaft (or rebuilt shaft) is usually more economical and reliable than trying to save a damaged joint.

Does a wheel alignment need to be done after a driveshaft change?

Not always. If the strut bolts weren’t loosened and only the lower ball joint was separated, alignment is typically unchanged. Still, given small movements can nudge toe settings, checking alignment and tyre wear afterwards is sensible.