Parts for your 2008 Nissan Primera-Universal joints

2008 Nissan Primera universal joints — are they used?

For a 2008 Nissan Primera (P12 series), universal joints (U‑joints) aren’t a driveline service item. This model is a transverse, front‑wheel‑drive car that uses constant velocity (CV) joints on its front drive shafts, not prop‑shaft U‑joints. The only place a universal joint appears is in the steering column’s intermediate shaft, which is a different component to the driveline U‑joints people usually search for.

This conclusion aligns with technical sources: the Nissan Primera P12 Factory Service Manual describes front drive shafts with Birfield (outer) and tripod (inner) CV joints and makes no mention of propeller shafts or universal joints in the drivetrain. Standard automotive references like the Bosch Automotive Handbook and SAE texts also note that FWD passenger cars use CV joints to transmit power at large steering angles while maintaining constant velocity.

Why the Primera doesn’t use driveline U‑joints:

• FWD layout: There’s no rear propeller shaft, so no place for traditional U‑joints.
• Steering angles: CV joints deliver constant velocity through greater angles than U‑joints, preventing vibration and shudder on full lock.
• Refinement and packaging: CV joints suit compact, transverse powertrains and improve NVH compared with single Cardan U‑joints.

If you’re chasing a clunk or vibration thinking it’s a U‑joint, the Primera’s likely culprits are the CV joints or their boots. Split boots let grease out and water in, leading to clicking on turns or shudder under load. During routine servicing, inspect CV boots for cracks, grease fling, or looseness, check for play in the outer joints, and listen for clicking on tight circles. Replace damaged boots promptly to save the joint. If there’s play or noise, replace the affected CV joint or the complete shaft assembly.

Note: The steering column does have a small universal joint. If the steering feels notchy, binds, or clunks over bumps, have the intermediate shaft and its U‑joint checked. It’s separate from the drivetrain and isn’t typically replaced as a regular service item unless wear or corrosion is found.

• Does a 2008 Nissan Primera have universal joints in the driveshaft?
  No. The Primera is FWD and uses CV joints on the front drive shafts. The only universal joint on the car is in the steering column’s intermediate shaft, not the driveline.
• What should be checked instead of U‑joints on a Primera?
  Inspect the front CV boots and joints, wheel bearings, and engine/gearbox mounts. CV boots commonly split with age, leading to joint wear and noise.
• How can someone tell if the steering U‑joint is worn?
  Symptoms include notchy or stiff steering near centre, a light clunk through the column over bumps, or visible rust/play at the intermediate shaft. Replacement of the intermediate shaft assembly is the typical fix.