Parts for your 2000 Toyota Altezza-Cv joint

2000 Toyota Altezza CV joint — what it does and when to sort it

Yes, the 2000 Toyota Altezza (XE10, incl. RS200/GXE10) uses CV joints — on the rear half‑shafts. It’s rear‑wheel drive, so there are no front drive shafts or front CVs, but the independent rear suspension runs a pair of rear drive shafts with inboard and outboard constant velocity joints. This layout is documented in Toyota/Lexus service literature for the XE10 platform (Driveline/Axle — Rear Drive Shaft, procedures covering joints and boots) and reflected in the Toyota/Lexus Electronic Parts Catalogue entries for “Drive Shaft Assy, Rear” showing boots, clips and joint components.

On the Altezza, the CV joint’s job is to transfer torque from the rear differential to the wheels while the suspension moves up and down and the hub steers slightly through toe changes. Because it can articulate and still spin smoothly, it keeps power delivery consistent and reduces vibration. When the joint is healthy and well‑greased under an intact rubber boot, it’s quiet and drama‑free.

As part of regular servicing, it’s worth giving the rear CV boots a quick look whenever the car’s on a hoist. The main killer is a split boot that lets grease sling out and grime sneak in. Once the joint runs low on grease, it starts to click on take‑off or when loading and unloading the driveline, then can progress to shudder under acceleration. Left too long, you’ll be up for a full shaft or joint replacement instead of a simple boot job.

• Inspect rear CV boots at each service or every 10,000–15,000 km — look for cracks, tears, or grease spray inside the rear rims.
• If a boot is split but the joint’s still quiet and smooth, a boot kit with fresh grease and new clamps can save heaps.
• Clicking, knocking, or vibration under load usually means joint wear — replacing the affected joint or complete shaft is the reliable fix.
• When refitting, use the specified moly CV grease, new clamps, and correct torque on hub/diff fasteners to avoid leaks or looseness.

With the right checks and timely boot replacement, Altezza rear CV joints last a very long time, keeping the driveline smooth and the weekend drives properly sorted.

Popular questions about 2000 Toyota Altezza CV joints

Does the Altezza have front CV joints?
No. The 2000 Altezza is rear‑wheel drive, so there are no front drive shafts or front CVs. The CV joints live on the rear half‑shafts between the differential and the rear hubs.

What are the signs a rear CV joint or boot needs attention?
Grease flung around the inner rear wheel, a torn or perished boot, clicking on take‑off or during load changes, and vibration under acceleration are classic signs. Catching a split boot early usually means a simple boot and grease refresh instead of a full joint.

Is it better to replace just the boot or the whole shaft?
If the joint is quiet and shows no play, a boot kit is cost‑effective. If there’s clicking, roughness, or visible wear, replacing the joint or a complete shaft assembly is the smarter long‑term fix. Always use new clamps and the correct grease, and torque everything to spec.