Parts for your 2000 Nissan Primera-Driveshafts

2000 Nissan Primera Driveshafts

Based on the Nissan Primera P11 Factory Service Manual (Driveline & Axle section) and the Nissan FAST parts catalogue for P11/P11-144 models, the 2000 Nissan Primera is fitted with front driveshafts (CV axle shafts). These transfer power from the transaxle to the front wheels. Certain Japan‑market 4WD variants also include a propeller shaft to the rear. So, driveshafts are absolutely relevant for this model.

On a 2000 Nissan Primera, the driveshafts do the hard yakka of sending engine torque to the wheels while coping with suspension travel and steering angles. Each shaft uses constant velocity (CV) joints that keep things smooth and quiet, so there’s no binding when turning or cruising over bumps. When these joints and their rubber boots are healthy, the car feels tight and predictable.

Servicing is mostly about inspection rather than scheduled replacement. The Factory Service Manual and common trade practice recommend checking CV boots at every service or roughly every 10,000–15,000 kilometres. If a boot splits, grease flings out and road grit gets in, quickly chewing out the joint. Catch it early and a boot-and-grease refresh will usually save the shaft, leave it too long and it’ll need a complete driveshaft assembly.

• Tell-tale signs: a clicking or clacking on full lock, vibration under load, grease splatter around the inner guard or lower arm, or a thud on take-off.
• Best practice: replace torn boots promptly, use high‑moly CV grease, and fit new clips. If a joint is noisy or has play, swap the full shaft.

Replacement on the Primera is straightforward for an experienced tech: remove the staked hub nut, free the lower arm or strut pinch, and pop the inner joint from the transaxle. Always use a new hub nut and stake it correctly. After refitting, torque fasteners to the figures in the P11 FSM and check for gearbox oil loss from the driveshaft seals—top up if required. An alignment usually isn’t necessary unless suspension geometry was disturbed, but it’s smart to check tyre wear and steering feel afterward.

For NZ‑import 4WD versions, add a quick look at the propeller shaft, centre bearing, and joints for noise or vibration. Most Australasian cars are FWD only, so it’s the front CVs that deserve the attention.

Quality matters. Genuine or reputable aftermarket shafts and boots will last longer and run quieter. With regular inspections and timely boot repairs, Primera driveshafts typically deliver long, drama‑free service.

Popular questions about 2000 Nissan Primera driveshafts

What are the common symptoms of a failing driveshaft or CV joint on a Primera?
Owners usually notice a rhythmic clicking on tight turns, especially when accelerating out of a carpark, or a shudder under load on the motorway. Grease sprayed around the inner wheel area or a visible split boot are early warnings. If it’s left too long, the noise will get louder and the joint can develop play you can feel by hand.

Can it be driven with a torn CV boot?
It’ll drive, but it’s a false economy. A torn boot quickly leads to grease loss and contamination, turning a simple boot job into a full shaft replacement. If the joint hasn’t started clicking, replacing the boot and repacking with fresh CV grease generally saves the day. If it’s already noisy, go straight to a complete driveshaft.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing a driveshaft?
Typically no, because the work doesn’t change static alignment angles. That said, if the lower arm or strut bolts were loosened, or if the steering wheel isn’t straight afterward, an alignment check is worthwhile. It’s also a good chance to inspect tyres for uneven wear caused by prior vibrations.