Parts for your 2009 Nissan Navara-Driveshafts

2009 Nissan Navara driveshafts

Based on technical references including the Nissan D40 Navara Service Manual (Driveline – Propeller Shaft and Front Drive Shaft sections), the Nissan FAST parts catalogue, and the Haynes D40 workshop manual, the 2009 Nissan Navara is definitely fitted with driveshafts. Rear-wheel-drive variants use a tailshaft (propeller shaft) to send torque from the gearbox to the rear differential, often a two-piece unit with a centre bearing on longer wheelbases. Four-wheel-drive models add a front propeller shaft to the transfer case, plus front CV halfshafts from the front diff to each wheel.

On this ute, driveshafts do the heavy lifting: they transfer engine power smoothly to the axles while allowing for suspension travel and angle changes. Universal joints (U-joints) and, on 4x4s, CV joints take care of the movement. A worn U-joint, tired centre bearing, or torn CV boot can quickly turn smooth cruising into vibration, clunks, or clicking on turns.

As part of regular servicing, driveshafts deserve a quick once-over. Inspection every service interval is smart—look for play at U-joints, split CV boots (4x4), rust-coloured dust around caps, grease sling, or cracks in the centre bearing rubber. Many factory U-joints are sealed, if grease nipples are fitted (some aftermarket replacements are), give them a light pump with quality grease—don’t overdo it. Any torn CV boot should be replaced promptly to save the joint. After water crossings or beach work, a more thorough inspection helps catch early wear.

Replacement is straightforward for a pro, but alignment matters. Mark flange positions before removal to preserve balance, use new hardware where specified, and torque to spec. If the vehicle has a lift, driveline angles and centre bearing height may need adjustment to prevent shudder. Choosing the right part means matching body style, wheelbase, 4x2 vs 4x4, transmission, and engine—there are multiple lengths and configurations across the D40 range.

• Common symptoms owners notice:
  • Vibration under load or at highway speeds
  • Clunk on take-off or during shifts
  • Squeak at low speed that speeds up with the vehicle
  • Clicking on turns (front CVs on 4x4)
• Good practice:
  • Inspect driveshafts and boots every service
  • Replace worn U-joints/centre bearing as sets to restore balance
  • Rebalance the shaft if it’s been separated or after component replacement

Looked after properly, a Navara’s tailshaft and CVs can run for hundreds of thousands of kilometres. Towing, heavy loads, and off-road duty increase the need for checks, but catching wear early keeps the ute tight, quiet, and ready for work.

Popular questions about 2009 Nissan Navara driveshafts

Are all 2009 Navara driveshafts the same?
No. Differences include 4x2 vs 4x4, manual vs auto, wheelbase (single vs two-piece tailshaft), and engine/trim. 4x4 models also have a front propeller shaft and front CV halfshafts that 4x2 models don’t. Matching parts to VIN and driveline spec is the safest bet.

How long do the U-joints and centre bearing typically last?
With normal mixed driving they can last 150,000–250,000 km or more. Beach work, mud, heavy towing, and lifts can shorten that. Vibration, clunks, or red dust around the caps point to U-joint wear, droning and visible rubber cracks suggest a tired centre bearing.

Why does a Navara sometimes vibrate after a suspension lift?
Lifted ride height changes driveline angles, which can cause shudder or vibration under load. Solutions include adjusting the centre bearing height, pinion angle correction (wedges/shims), checking U-joint phasing, and rebalancing the tailshaft. Worn joints will make it worse, so inspect before chasing geometry.