Parts for your 2009 Toyota Ractis-Driveshafts

2009 Toyota Ractis driveshafts — what they do and how to look after them

Driveshafts are absolutely relevant to the 2009 Toyota Ractis. Technical references like the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) for model codes NCP100 (FWD) and NCP105 (4WD), along with Toyota Repair Manual procedures, list front “Drive Shaft Assembly LH/RH” with CV joints, the 4WD variant also adds a propeller shaft to the rear differential and rear drive shafts. So, yes — this Ractis runs driveshafts as core drivetrain hardware.

On the 2009 Ractis, the driveshafts (often called CV axles) transfer torque from the transaxle to the wheels while allowing for steering and suspension movement. Each shaft uses constant velocity (CV) joints and flexible rubber boots packed with grease to keep everything smooth and quiet. For 4WD models, there’s also a prop shaft down the middle and short rear shafts feeding the rear wheels.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the CV boots every service interval. In Aussie and New Zealand conditions, checking them every 10,000–15,000 km or at each oil change is a good habit. Look for splits or weeping grease, loose boot clamps, or any fling of dark grease around the inner guards. Catching a torn boot early means a simple reboot and fresh CV grease, leave it too long and grit will chew out the joint, leading to a clicking noise on turns, shudder under load, or vibration at highway speeds.

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech. Many shops will fit complete shaft assemblies because it’s efficient and reliable, though quality rebooting of a good original shaft is also fine. Always use the correct spec moly CV grease, new boot clamps, and a new axle nut, torque it properly, and stake the nut. After any shaft removal, check the transaxle oil level and the axle seals for leaks. On 4WD Ractis, also inspect the propeller shaft centre bearing, rear CVs, and diff seals. A quick wheel alignment check is worthwhile if the hub’s been disturbed.

Tell-tale symptoms to watch for include:

• Clicking or clacking on tight turns
• Vibration or shudder on acceleration
• Grease spray near the inner or outer CV area

Look after the boots, and the original driveshafts can often run well past 150,000 km without drama.

FAQs

Does a 2009 Toyota Ractis have driveshafts, and how many?
Yes. FWD models have two front driveshafts (left and right) with CV joints. 4WD models add a propeller shaft to the rear differential plus two rear driveshafts, so there are four axle shafts total plus the prop shaft.

How long do the CV joints last on a Ractis?
If the boots stay intact, CV joints commonly last 150,000 km or more. Many NZ grey imports arrive with ageing rubber, so routine boot checks are key. A small split fixed early can save a full shaft replacement later.

What are the signs the driveshafts need attention, and can the boot be replaced on its own?
Common signs are clicking on turns, vibration under acceleration, or visible grease sling. If the boot tear is caught early and the joint hasn’t ingested grit, a reboot with fresh grease is usually fine. If the joint is noisy or pitted, a complete shaft assembly is the better fix.