Parts for your 2001 Daihatsu Yrv-Universal joints

2001 Daihatsu YRV universal joints (U-joints) — what’s fitted and what to service

Based on the Daihatsu YRV M200-series workshop manual and the Daihatsu electronic parts catalogue (EPC), universal joints are only relevant on 2001 YRV models with 4WD (chassis code commonly referenced as M211G). Those 4WD cars run a tailshaft/propeller shaft to the rear diff with universal joints at each end. The 2WD YRV (M200/M201G) doesn’t have a tailshaft, so there are no driveline U-joints fitted.

Why they’re not used on 2WD: the 2001 YRV in 2WD form is a transverse front-wheel-drive layout. Drive is sent to the front wheels via halfshafts that use constant-velocity (CV) joints, not U-joints. With no rear differential or propeller shaft, a U-joint simply isn’t part of the driveline package. (There may be a small steering shaft joint, but that’s a different component to the driveline “universal joint” people usually mean.)

For 4WD YRV owners, the universal joints are small but critical bits of hardware that let the tailshaft transmit engine torque to the rear diff while the suspension moves and the angles change. When healthy, they keep the driveline smooth, quiet and efficient. Over time—especially with coastal exposure, gravel roads, or lots of start–stop driving—the needle bearings inside the caps can dry out or wear, leading to vibration or clunks.

What to look for during routine servicing:

• A light clunk when shifting from Drive to Reverse, or on on/off throttle.
• A rhythmic vibration under load (often 40–80 km/h) that changes with vehicle speed.
• Chirping or squeaking at take-off that disappears at higher speed.
• Noticeable play at the tailshaft when the vehicle is safely raised and the handbrake is on.

Most factory U-joints are sealed-for-life. If yours have grease nipples (common on quality replacements), give them a light pump of the correct grease at service time—don’t overdo it. Inspect the joint caps for rust bleed, missing circlips, or flung grease. If there’s any play, binding, or roughness when the joint is articulated by hand, replacement is the go.

Replacement tips for the YRV’s 4WD tailshaft:

• Mark the flanges before removal to maintain phasing and balance.
• Support the shaft to avoid stressing the centre bearing (if fitted) and seals.
• Press the old joint out carefully, clean the yoke bores, and seat new caps fully with new circlips.
• Tighten fasteners to the workshop manual specs and recheck for smooth movement with no tight spots.

A quick inspection every 20,000 km (or sooner if it tows, sees rough tracks, or lives by the sea) helps catch wear early and keeps the little YRV tracking sweet and quiet.

Popular questions about 2001 Daihatsu YRV universal joints

Does my 2001 Daihatsu YRV have universal joints?
If it’s a 2WD model, no—there’s no tailshaft, so no driveline U-joints. If it’s the 4WD variant (often noted by the M211G chassis code or a rear diff visible under the car), it does have universal joints on the propeller shaft.

How long do the YRV’s universal joints last?
On a well-maintained 4WD YRV, they can last a long time—often well past 150,000 km—but coastal conditions, rough roads, and lack of lubrication on aftermarket greasable joints can shorten that. Regular inspections for play, noise and rust staining are the best guide.

Can U-joints be lubricated, or are they sealed?
Factory joints are typically sealed. Many quality replacements come with grease nipples, if yours do, a small shot of the right grease at each service helps longevity. If a sealed joint is noisy or has play, replacement is the proper fix.