Parts for your 1999 Toyota Crown-Cv joint

1999 Toyota Crown CV joint — what it does and when to service

According to Toyota technical references for the S170-series Crown (1999–2003) — including the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue listings for “Rear Drive Shaft Assembly” with inboard/outboard boot kits, and the Crown (S170) Repair Manual driveline sections — the 1999 Toyota Crown uses constant velocity (CV) joints on its rear half‑shafts in rear‑wheel‑drive models, and at both front and rear on 4WD variants. So a CV joint is absolutely relevant to this vehicle.

On this Crown, the CV joints sit at each end of the rear drive shafts, allowing smooth transfer of torque as the suspension moves up and down. They keep power delivery consistent at varying angles, so there’s less vibration and a nicer, quieter drive. Inner joints are typically tripod/DOJ style for plunge movement, while outers are Rzeppa type for steering-like angularity at the hub — conventions reflected in Toyota’s parts and service documentation for S170 driveline hardware.

There’s no fixed replacement interval for CV joints themselves, they usually last ages if the rubber boots stay intact. Servicing is mostly about inspection. At regular services (say every 10,000–15,000 km), a quick look under the rear of the Crown for split boots or grease fling will save a world of bother. If a boot is torn but the joint hasn’t started clicking, a boot-and-grease refresh can be all that’s needed.

If there’s noise or play, it’s time to act. Typical signs are clicking during low‑speed manoeuvres under load, shudder on acceleration, or a rhythmic vibration that changes with speed. Once a joint’s worn, replacing the complete shaft assembly is often the most reliable fix and can be more time‑efficient than rebuilding a single joint. Use the correct CV grease (moly-based as specified) and high-quality clamps, and always follow Toyota torque specs for the hub and differential flange fasteners as outlined in the Crown S170 repair procedures.

• Inspect rear CV boots at each service, look for cracks, splits, or thrown grease.
• If a boot’s damaged and the joint is quiet, fit a new boot kit and repack with the specified grease.
• If there’s clicking, play, or blueing/pitting in the races, replace the complete half‑shaft.
• After installation, road test for vibration and recheck for grease leaks.

Does a 1999 Toyota Crown have CV joints, and where are they?

Yes. RWD S170 Crowns have CV joints on the rear half‑shafts. 4WD variants add CV joints to the front as well. The non‑driven front suspension on RWD models does not use CV joints.

What are the common symptoms of a worn CV joint on a Crown?

Tell‑tales include clicking or knocking during low‑speed turns under throttle, vibration on acceleration, and grease splattered around the inner wheel or underbody from a split boot. Catching a torn boot early can prevent joint wear.

Should the whole shaft be replaced or just the boot/joint?

If the boot has just failed and the joint is quiet with no play, a boot kit and fresh grease usually does the trick. If there’s noise, roughness, or visible wear, replacing the complete half‑shaft assembly is the dependable option and often saves labour. Always match parts to the exact S170 variant.