Parts for your 2005 Daihatsu Yrv-Universal joints

Are universal joints used on a 2005 Daihatsu YRV?

Short answer: not on the driveline of the typical 2005 Daihatsu YRV. Technical references including the Daihatsu YRV service manual (Front Axle/Drive Shaft section) specify constant velocity (CV) joints on the front driveshafts, not universal (Hooke’s) joints. Engineering texts such as the Bosch Automotive Handbook explain that FWD layouts require CV joints to maintain constant rotational speed at large steering and suspension angles. Daihatsu’s steering section further shows a small universal joint on the intermediate steering shaft, but that’s a steering component, not a prop-shaft/driveline U-joint.

Why universal joints aren’t used on the YRV’s front drive axles comes down to how front-wheel-drive works. A universal joint causes speed fluctuation when run at an angle, which would lead to vibration, torque steer and premature wear during cornering. CV joints eliminate that fluctuation and cope with the big angles seen as the front wheels steer and move up and down. That’s why Daihatsu specifies inboard tripod CV joints and outboard Rzeppa-style CV joints for the YRV’s front shafts in its workshop literature.

• Front driveline: CV joints only (as per Daihatsu YRV workshop manual).
• Steering column: a small U-joint on the intermediate shaft is present (steering manual section).
• Rare exception: some Japan‑market 4WD YRV variants use a rear prop shaft with U-joints, these are uncommon in AU/NZ markets.

What does this mean for servicing? For a 2005 YRV, universal-joint parts generally aren’t relevant to the driveline unless it’s a 4WD import. Attention should instead go to the CV boots and joints: split boots, grease flung around the inner guards, clicking on full lock, or vibration on acceleration are the classic CV signs. Under the bonnet, a quick check of the steering intermediate shaft’s small U-joint is sensible too—stiffness, rust binding or a notchy feel at the wheel can indicate it needs lubrication or replacement.

If a customer does have a 4WD YRV, then driveline U-joints on the prop shaft become relevant, they should be checked for play, rust-coloured dust and clunks when taking up drive. For the far more common FWD YRV, stick to CV joint maintenance and it’ll stay smooth and drama-free for many kilometres.

• Does a 2005 Daihatsu YRV have universal joints in the driveline?
  For the usual front-wheel-drive YRV, no—its driveshafts use CV joints. Only rare 4WD imports have prop-shaft U-joints.
• What joints should be serviced on a YRV?
  CV joints and boots on the front axles are the priority. Also give the steering intermediate shaft’s small U-joint a quick check.
• How can one tell if the YRV needs CV or U-joint attention?
  CV issues show as clicking on full lock, vibration on throttle and greasy splatter from torn boots. A worn U-joint (4WD prop shaft or steering) may cause clunks, binding or a notchy steering feel.