Parts for your 2005 Toyota Highlander-Driveshafts

2005 Toyota Highlander (Kluger) driveshafts — what they do and how to look after them

Based on Toyota’s factory literature and parts data, driveshafts are used on the 2005 Toyota Highlander (called Kluger in Australia and New Zealand). The Toyota Repair Manual for 2004–2006 Highlander/Kluger, the Toyota New Car Features guide for the XU20 platform, and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue all show front driveshafts (CV axle shafts) on every model, with an additional centre propeller shaft to the rear differential on AWD variants. General references like the Haynes manual for Toyota Highlander/Lexus RX (1999–2006) back this up as well.

For this model, “driveshafts” covers two bits of kit: the front CV axle shafts that send torque from the transaxle to the wheels (FWD and AWD), and—on AWD versions only—a propeller shaft running down the centre to the rear diff. Either way, they’re key to getting power to the tyres and keeping the ride quiet and smooth.

On the road, healthy driveshafts mean crisp take-offs and drama-free cornering. The CV joints at each end of the front shafts flex as the suspension moves and wheels steer, while their rubber boots trap grease and keep grit out. AWD prop shafts typically use a centre bearing and universal joints to manage angles between the transfer output and rear diff. Many OE assemblies have non-serviceable joints, so replacement is often done as a complete unit when wear sets in.

Good servicing habits go a long way:

• At each service, eyeball CV boots for splits, grease flinging inside the wheel, or clamps that have walked. Catching a torn boot early can save the joint.
• Listen and feel: clicking on tight turns points to outer CV wear