Parts for your 2008 Toyota Vitz|yaris-Universal joints

2008 Toyota Vitz/Yaris universal joints — are they used?

For most 2008 Toyota Vitz/Yaris (XP90) models, a universal joint isn’t part of the driveline. The front-wheel drive layout uses constant velocity (CV) joints on the left and right drive shafts, not the cross-type universal joints commonly found on rear-wheel drive prop shafts. Toyota’s factory service coverage for the XP90 platform describes outboard Rzeppa and inboard tripod CV joints on the front axles, and shows no propeller shaft on 2WD models. The Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue for NCP90/NCP91 similarly lists only front drive shafts and a torsion-beam rear axle. Toyota’s New Car Features documentation for XP90 details the FWD configuration and torsion-beam rear, again with no prop shaft on 2WD cars.

There is an exception: a Japan-market 4WD variant (e.g., NCP95) was produced, which does employ a propeller shaft and typically uses universal joints at each end. That spec wasn’t commonly sold in Australia or New Zealand, so for local 2008 Yaris/Vitz models, a driveline universal joint is generally not relevant.

Why doesn’t the 2WD Yaris use universal joints? Simple packaging and efficiency. With the engine and transaxle up front, torque is sent to the wheels via short half-shafts that pivot with steering and suspension travel. CV joints maintain constant rotational speed through larger angles, preventing vibration and shudder that a single U-joint would introduce on a FWD axle. It’s the right tool for the job.

Worth noting: there is a small universal joint in the steering intermediate shaft on all models. That’s a steering component, not a driveline part. If there’s a knock through the wheel over bumps or a notchy feel when turning, an inspection of the steering shaft joint may be in order.

• What you’ll find on AU/NZ 2WD 2008 Vitz/Yaris: front CV joints and boots, no driveline U-joints.
• What you won’t find: a propeller shaft or rear differential on 2WD cars.
• When a U-joint does appear: JDM 4WD variants with a prop shaft, or in the steering intermediate shaft on all cars.

If you’re chasing a clunk, vibration, or clicking under power, think CV joints first. Look for split boots, flung grease, clicking on full lock, or shudder under acceleration. For play in the column or a binding feel, have the steering intermediate shaft joint checked. Regular servicing here is straightforward: keep an eye on CV boots at each service, and address any steering joint corrosion or stiffness early to avoid bigger headaches down the track.

Popular questions about 2008 Toyota Vitz/Yaris universal joints

Does a 2008 Toyota Vitz/Yaris have universal joints?
Most AU/NZ 2WD models don’t use driveline universal joints. They run CV joints on the front drive shafts and have no propeller shaft. A universal joint is present in the steering intermediate shaft, but that’s a steering component rather than part of the drivetrain. Japan-only 4WD variants may have prop-shaft U-joints.

What symptoms feel like a bad U-joint on a Yaris?
On 2WD cars, “U-joint” symptoms are usually CV joint issues: clicking on full lock, grease flung around a torn boot, or vibration on acceleration. A steering knock or a notchy feel off-centre can point to wear in the steering intermediate shaft joint rather than a driveline fault.

Do the universal joints on a 4WD Vitz (NCP95) need servicing?
If you have the 4WD variant, the prop shaft uses U-joints that should be checked for play, rust dust around the caps, or vibration on cruise. Many modern shafts use staked, non-greaseable joints, so replacement often means a prop shaft or joint assembly rather than a simple grease-and-go. Follow Toyota’s inspection intervals and replace worn components promptly to avoid collateral damage.