Parts for your 2008 Nissan Primera-Driveshafts

2008 Nissan Primera driveshafts: what they do and how to look after them

Yes, driveshafts are absolutely used on the 2008 Nissan Primera. Factory technical references for the P12-series Primera – including the Nissan service manual (Front Drive Shaft/Front Axle sections) and the Nissan FAST electronic parts catalogue – list left and right front drive shaft assemblies with inner tripod joints and outer Rzeppa CV joints for all front‑wheel‑drive variants. Those sources also show no longitudinal propeller shaft on standard FWD models, which matches how most NZ and Australian‑delivered Primeras were built.

On this car, the driveshafts (often called CV shafts or halfshafts) transfer engine torque from the transaxle to the front wheels while allowing for steering angle and suspension travel. Each shaft has two constant‑velocity (CV) joints packed with grease and sealed by flexible rubber boots. When everything’s healthy, the car pulls smoothly, corners cleanly and doesn’t fling grease everywhere.

As part of routine servicing on a 2008 Nissan Primera, it’s smart to give the driveshafts a quick check. Look for split or perished CV boots, damp or slung grease near the inner guards, and any play at the joints. Catching a torn boot early and rebooting with the correct moly grease can save the joint itself.

Common signs it’s time to act include:

• Clicking or clacking on full lock (usually the outer CV joint)
• Shudder or vibration under load/acceleration (may indicate inner CV wear)
• Grease spray around the wheel or subframe, or visible boot damage
• Knocking over bumps if the joint has developed excessive play

Replacement tips for this model: use quality shafts or OE‑spec joints, always fit new axle/hub nuts and boot clamps, avoid levering against the seal faces, and top up or replace the transaxle oil if a shaft has been removed. It’s wise to replace the driveshaft oil seals if there’s any weep at the diff outputs. After refit, check for smooth rotation and take it for a gentle road test, listening for any residual noise.

Given Aussie and Kiwi conditions, frequent gravel and coastal driving can age rubber faster. A quick visual at every service or WOF/rego safety check helps avoid bigger bills later. If in doubt, a proper inspection on a hoist will confirm whether a simple reboot will do, or if a complete driveshaft assembly is the better call.

Popular questions about 2008 Nissan Primera driveshafts

How long do the driveshafts typically last?

On a well‑maintained Primera, driveshafts can last well past 150,000 km. Lifespan depends on boot condition and driving environment. Once a boot splits and grease escapes, wear accelerates quickly, so early boot replacement is key to long life.

Is it safe to drive with a clicking CV joint?

A light click on full lock might be drivable short‑term, but it’s a sign the outer joint is wearing. Continued driving risks sudden failure, especially under load, and can damage surrounding parts. It’s best to book a repair sooner rather than later.

Can I replace just the boot, or do I need a whole new shaft?

If the boot has only just split and the joint is still clean and quiet, a reboot with fresh grease is fine. If there’s clicking, roughness, or metal contamination in the grease, replacing the joint or the complete shaft assembly is the better option.