Parts for your 2006 Ford Falcon-Universal joints

2006 Ford Falcon universal joints — are they used?

Short answer: on most 2006 Ford Falcon sedans and wagons (BF series), universal joints aren’t fitted to the tailshaft, so a “universal-joints” part isn’t relevant. Ford’s own BF Falcon Workshop Manual (2005–2008, Section 205‑01 Driveline) specifies a two‑piece propeller shaft that uses constant velocity (CV) joints and rubber flex couplings (giubos), plus a centre bearing — no serviceable unis are shown for those body styles. The Ford Australia parts catalogue (Microcat) mirrors this, listing CV joints and flex discs for BF sedans/wagons, while BF Falcon Ute listings show conventional universal joints. Aftermarket driveline catalogues (e.g., Hardy Spicer) also note CV-and-flex‑disc setups on BA/BF sedans and unis on many utes.

Why did Ford skip universal joints on the 2006 BF sedan and wagon? It’s largely about noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) control and the rear suspension geometry. The independent rear suspension in these models benefits from CV joints and flex couplings to keep driveline angles happy, reduce lash, and smooth out torque delivery — particularly noticeable with the autos. CVs and giubos soak up the small angular and length changes far better than a simple uni would, which keeps the cabin quieter and driveline shudder at bay.

If someone’s chasing a clunk or shudder in a 2006 Falcon sedan/wagon, the service focus should be on the parts it actually has:

• Front and/or rear rubber flex coupling (giubo) — look for cracking, separation, or perished rubber.
• Rear CV joint — check for play, binding, or split boots that let grease escape.
• Centre bearing — inspect the bearing and support rubber for wear or collapse.
• Tailshaft balance and alignment — ensure correct phasing and mounting after any removal.

For BF Falcon Ute owners, it’s a different story. Many utes in this era run a single‑piece tailshaft with traditional universal joints. Those unis allow the live rear axle to articulate without binding and are tough, simple, and easy to service — which suits load‑carrying and towing. If a ute shows symptoms like rhythmic vibration under load, a click on take‑off, or red dust around a cap, the unis may be dry or worn and due for replacement. Greasable units should be lubed at regular service intervals, non‑greasable types are replaced when play appears.

Technical sources referenced: Ford BF Falcon Workshop Manual (2005–2008) Section 205‑01 Driveline, Ford Australia Parts Catalogue (Microcat) BF series, Hardy Spicer driveline catalogue listings for BA/BF Falcon sedan vs ute applications.

Popular questions

Do 2006 Ford Falcon sedans have universal joints?
BF sedans and wagons typically don’t. They use CV joints and rubber flex couplings with a centre bearing. Universal joints are generally found on many BF Falcon Utes instead. If unsure, a quick look under the car will show either a rubber doughnut and CVs (sedan/wagon) or yokes with cross‑shaped unis (ute).

What should be checked instead of universal joints on a 2006 Falcon sedan?
Inspect the front and rear flex couplings for cracks, the rear CV joint for play or split boots, and the centre bearing for sag. These are the common wear items that cause clunks or shudder on BF sedans and wagons, especially under load or on light throttle at highway speeds.

How often should driveline joints be serviced on a 2006 Falcon?
There’s no set interval for replacement, it’s condition‑based. At each service, inspect couplings, the CV joint boot, and the centre bearing. Greasable unis on BF utes should be lubricated at routine service intervals. Any vibration, thump on take‑off, or visible rubber deterioration warrants prompt attention.