Parts for your 2009 Nissan Serena-Driveshafts

2009 Nissan Serena driveshafts — what they do and how to look after them

Driveshafts are absolutely relevant to the 2009 Nissan Serena. The Nissan Serena C25 Factory Service Manual (2005–2010), particularly the FAX/Front Axle and DLN/Driveline sections, and the Nissan FAST electronic parts catalogue for 2009, list front driveshaft (CV axle) assemblies for all front‑wheel‑drive models, with an additional propeller shaft and rear half‑shafts on 4WD variants. So whether it’s a common FWD Serena or a 4WD model, there are driveshafts on the job.

On this people mover, the front driveshafts (often called CV axles) connect the transaxle to the front hubs, sending engine torque to the wheels while allowing for steering angle and suspension travel. Each shaft runs an inner and outer CV joint packed with special grease and protected by rubber boots. On 4WD versions, there’s also a centre prop shaft to the rear diff and a pair of rear driveshafts.

Look after the driveshafts and they’ll quietly clock up the kilometres. The big one is boot health: once a boot splits, grease escapes, water and grit get in, and a good joint can wear out fast. Regular servicing should include a quick look for:

• Grease spray around the inner guard, strut, or wheel — often a torn boot.
• Clicking or popping on tight turns — usually an outer CV joint on the way out.
• Shudder or vibration under acceleration — commonly an inner joint or a worn intermediate support bearing (where fitted).
• Weeping transaxle output seals — worth replacing while a shaft is out.

When it’s time for repair, replacing the complete shaft assembly is often the best value if a boot has been torn for a while or the joint is noisy. Rebooting can make sense when the joint’s still clean and tight. Always use new clamps and the correct CV grease, and fit a new axle nut and stake it as specified. After refitting, check the CVT fluid (the 2009 Serena typically uses Nissan NS‑2) in case any was lost during removal, top up and set the level per the workshop procedure. Don’t sit the vehicle’s weight on the hub with the axle removed — that can damage the wheel bearing. If the Serena is the 4WD type, inspect the prop shaft centre bearing and rear CV boots at the same time for a one‑and‑done driveline service.

Popular questions about 2009 Nissan Serena driveshafts

How long do the driveshafts usually last?
With intact boots and normal use, the front CV shafts on a Serena can often go 150,000–250,000 km. High heat, torn boots, heavy loads, or lots of full‑lock manoeuvring can shorten that. Once a joint clicks or a boot splits, plan repair soon to avoid collateral damage.

Do both front driveshafts need replacing together?
Not strictly, but if both sides are high‑kilometre and one has failed, many workshops recommend doing the pair so wear and ride feel are consistent. On a tighter budget, replacing the noisy or damaged side first is fine, then monitor the other.

Can the car be driven with a clicking CV joint?
It might drive for a while, but it’s risky. A failing joint can let go and leave the vehicle without drive. If a boot has just split and there’s no noise yet, a prompt reboot can save the joint, if it’s clicking, a full shaft replacement is the safer call.