Parts for your 2007 Honda Stream-Universal joints

2007 Honda Stream universal joints — are they actually used?

Short answer: for most 2007 Honda Stream models, universal joints (the classic Hooke/Cardan type used on rear prop shafts) aren’t part of the front‑wheel‑drive driveline. Honda’s own technical literature backs this up. The RN6–RN9 workshop manual and Honda’s electronic parts catalogue (EPC) specify front half‑shafts with inboard tripod joints and outboard Rzeppa constant‑velocity (CV) joints, with no propeller shaft on front‑drive variants. That design mirrors the Civic platform it’s based on and aligns with standard engineering practice noted in SAE literature for FWD layouts.

Why no universal joints? FWD cars like the Stream need smooth, constant rotational speed through big steering and suspension angles up front. Traditional unis create speed fluctuation at an angle, which would cause vibration and torque ripple. CV joints, by design, keep the velocity constant, cut noise/harshness, and cope with larger angles — perfect for a people mover that spends its life in town and on the motorway.

There are some exceptions to know about:

• 4WD/JDM variants: Certain Japanese‑market 4WD Streams are listed with a rear propeller shaft in the EPC. Those assemblies typically use small cardan joints and a centre bearing. If the vehicle is a 4WD import, then universal joints do apply at the rear prop shaft.
• Steering column: All Streams use small universal joints in the intermediate steering shaft. They’re not the same as driveline unis and are serviced as a shaft assembly rather than a replaceable “U‑joint kit”.

What should owners in Australia or New Zealand do with this info? If it’s a front‑drive Stream (the most common here), there are no driveline universal joints to service or replace. Focus servicing on the CV gear instead: inspect outer and inner CV boots every service or 10,000–15,000 km, look for sling‑off grease, splits, or loose clamps, and listen for clicking on full lock (outer CV) or shudder on take‑off (inner tripod). Keep an eye on wheel bearings and tyre condition too, as they can mimic driveline vibes.

Got a 4WD Stream import? Add these quick checks:

• Prop shaft unis: feel for play or notchiness with the rear wheels off the ground, look for red dust at the bearing caps, vibration at 60–100 km/h, or a clunk on take‑off.
• Centre bearing: inspect the rubber support for cracking and the bearing for roughness.
• Replacement: most unis are staked from factory, replacement often means a prop shaft exchange or specialist rebuild to maintain balance. Always mark flanges and torque fasteners to spec.

Technical sources referenced: Honda Stream RN6–RN9 Workshop Manual (Driveshaft/Axle and Steering sections), Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue for RN chassis codes, and general SAE guidance on CV versus Hooke joint behaviour in FWD applications.

Popular questions about 2007 Honda Stream universal joints

Does a 2007 Honda Stream have universal joints?
Most Australian and New Zealand 2007 Streams are front‑wheel drive and use CV joints only, no rear prop‑shaft universal joints. Some Japanese‑market 4WD variants do have a rear prop shaft that typically uses small cardan (uni) joints. All models have a small uni in the steering intermediate shaft, which is a separate assembly from the driveline.

What should be serviced instead of universal joints on a 2WD Stream?
Check CV boots and clamps for splits or grease, listen for clicking on full lock, and feel for vibration under load that could indicate inner tripod wear. Also inspect wheel bearings, engine mounts and tyres, as they can cause similar symptoms.

How can someone spot a failing universal joint on a 4WD Stream?
Look for a clunk when shifting from reverse to drive, a steady vibration around 60–100 km/h, or rust‑coloured dust at the bearing caps. With the vehicle safely supported, try twisting the prop shaft by hand, play or notchiness suggests a worn uni or a tired centre bearing. A driveline specialist can confirm and balance the shaft after repair.