Parts for your 2009 Toyota Blade-Universal joints

2009 Toyota Blade: Are universal joints used, and what should owners know?

For the 2009 Toyota Blade (E150 series hatch, including Blade and Blade Master), universal joints in the driveline aren’t used. Technical references such as the Toyota Repair Manual for the E15# platform (Drivetrain/Axle – Front Drive Shaft) and Toyota New Car Features for the Auris/Blade confirm the vehicle is front‑wheel drive with a transaxle and two front drive shafts fitted with constant velocity (CV) joints, not prop‑shaft universal joints. The Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue for E15# Blade variants also lists no propeller shaft assembly, reinforcing that a tailshaft with U‑joints simply isn’t part of this layout.

Why no universal joints? In a front‑wheel drive hatch like the Blade, the front shafts must transmit power while steering and moving through large angles. CV joints (Rzeppa/Birfield outers and tripod inners, as specified in the workshop literature) maintain constant rotational speed through these angles, avoiding the speed fluctuation and vibration that a single U‑joint would introduce. That makes CVs the right tool for the job, delivering smooth take‑off and tidy NVH under Aussie and Kiwi road conditions.

Worth noting: there is a small universal joint in the steering intermediate shaft on most E150 models, but that’s part of the steering column, not the driveline. When people ask for “universal joints” on a Blade, they’re usually chasing a noise or vibration that’s actually a CV joint or a worn steering column coupling.

Owners looking after a 2009 Toyota Blade should focus routine servicing on the CV joints and boots. Split boots fling grease and let in grit, which quickly chews out the joint. If there’s clicking on full lock, shudder on acceleration, or grease sprayed inside the wheel, it’s time for inspection. The steering column lower joint can also stiffen or develop play with age, check for notchy feel, binding after rain, or a clunk over bumps.

• Check front CV boots every service, replace boots or complete shafts if torn or dry.
• Listen for clicking on tight turns and vibration under load, these are classic CV symptoms.
• If the steering feels notchy or there’s free play, have the steering intermediate joint assessed.

Bottom line for the 2009 Toyota Blade: no driveline universal joints are fitted, because its FWD transaxle relies on CV joints for smooth, reliable power delivery. Keep those CVs clean and greased, and it’ll remain a quiet, tidy commuter.

Popular questions about 2009 Toyota Blade universal joints

Does a 2009 Toyota Blade have universal joints in the driveline?

No. The Blade is front‑wheel drive and uses CV joints on the front drive shafts. There’s no rear prop shaft, so no driveline U‑joints.

What some owners call a “u‑joint” issue is often a worn CV joint or, less commonly, play in the steering column coupling.

What should be checked instead of universal joints on a 2009 Blade?

Inspect the front CV boots for splits, grease leaks, or loose clamps, and listen for clicking on full lock or shudder under acceleration.

If the steering feels notchy or there’s a clunk over bumps, have the steering intermediate shaft joint checked for wear or corrosion.

Can the steering column have a universal joint on the 2009 Blade?

Yes, the steering intermediate shaft typically uses a small universal joint. It’s separate from the driveline and can wear over time.

Symptoms include stiffness, a notchy steering feel, or minor free play, replacement restores smooth steering feel.