Parts for your 2005 Toyota Vitz|yaris-Universal joints

2005 Toyota Vitz/Yaris universal joints – are they actually used?

Short answer: for the Australian and New Zealand–market 2005 Toyota Vitz/Yaris (XP90 platform), universal joints aren’t used in the drivetrain. Toyota’s workshop manual for the XP90 Vitz/Yaris and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue list front drive shafts with constant velocity (CV) joints, not Cardan-type universal joints, and there’s no propeller shaft on the front‑wheel‑drive models to need a U‑joint. This aligns with standard FWD design practice, where Rzeppa/Birfield CV joints manage both power delivery and steering angles far better than U‑joints.

Why no universal joints? A few solid reasons apply:

• FWD layout: there’s no rear prop shaft, so no place for driveline U‑joints.
• Steering angles: CV joints cope with the large articulation of front wheels, U‑joints would cause vibration and speed fluctuation at angle.
• Packaging and refinement: CV joints are quieter and smoother, matching Toyota’s NVH targets for the Vitz/Yaris.

One small exception worth noting: the steering column uses an intermediate shaft with a small universal joint to transmit steering input. That’s a steering component, not a driveline part, and it’s serviced separately from the axles.

So, if someone’s chasing a “universal joint” for a 2005 Vitz/Yaris driveline, what they actually need is attention on the CV joints and boots. As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to:

• Inspect CV boots every service for splits, grease fling, or clamps that have loosened.
• Address any clicking on full lock, shudder on take‑off, or vibration under load—common signs of worn CVs.
• Replace torn boots promptly to prevent joint wear, once a joint clicks, a replacement shaft or joint assembly is usually the go.

For the steering universal joint, symptoms include notchy feel, squeaks, or free play at the wheel. If that shows up, a replacement intermediate shaft or U‑joint is the proper fix—lubrication is typically a temporary bandaid at best.

Popular questions

Does a 2005 Toyota Vitz/Yaris have universal joints in the drivetrain?
No, not on the common FWD models sold in Australia and New Zealand. They use CV joints on the front drive shafts. Universal joints are generally found on rear prop shafts of RWD/4WD vehicles.

What should be serviced instead of universal joints on a 2005 Vitz/Yaris?
Focus on the front CV joints and boots. Check boots for splits or grease leaks at each service, and listen for clicking on turns. Replace damaged boots early, and swap the joint or complete shaft if there’s noise or play.

Is there a universal joint in the steering column on this model?
Yes, the intermediate steering shaft uses a small U‑joint. If steering feels notchy or there’s play, have that joint inspected and replaced if needed. It’s separate from the driveline and isn’t serviced like a CV joint.