Parts for your 2009 Toyota Wish-Universal joints

2009 Toyota Wish universal joints — are they actually used?

Based on Toyota technical literature for the ZGE20/21-series Wish (launched in 2009), the vehicle is built around a front-wheel-drive transaxle with left and right front half‑shafts that use constant velocity (CV) joints, not traditional universal joints (Cardan U‑joints). Toyota’s Repair Manual and New Car Features documents for this series cover Front Drive Shaft (inboard tripod/DOJ and outboard Rzeppa/BJ CV joints) and list no propeller shaft section for this model. Likewise, Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue shows front drive shaft sub‑assemblies with CV joints and no serviceable driveline U‑joint kits. That means a “universal-joints” replacement isn’t relevant to the 2009 Wish’s drivetrain as delivered from the factory.

Why no U‑joints on the driveline? The Wish’s FWD layout doesn’t need a long prop shaft to the rear, where U‑joints are typically used. CV joints are chosen because they keep a constant rotational speed through large angles, which is crucial on a FWD car where the front shafts must both steer and move with suspension travel. A single Cardan U‑joint creates speed fluctuation at angle, which would cause vibration and torque steer, a double-Cardan adds bulk and still doesn’t match the articulation of CVs. CVs also package neatly with the transaxle and hubs, improve NVH, and handle the steering lock angles the Wish runs every day around town.

One place a “universal joint” does exist is the steering intermediate shaft, which uses small cross-type joints. These aren’t part of the driveline and aren’t a periodic service item. If the steering column U‑joint develops notchiness, binding, or a clunk through the wheel, the fix is typically replacement of the intermediate shaft assembly rather than lubrication in situ.

What should owners and workshops service instead of driveline U‑joints on a 2009 Wish?

• Inspect CV boots at each service (or every 10,000–15,000 km). Look for splits, grease fling, or loose clamps.
• If a boot is torn but the joint is quiet, reboot and repack with the correct specified grease (different for inboard tripod vs outboard Rzeppa).
• Clicking on turns under throttle points to a worn outer CV, shudder on take‑off often suggests an inner CV issue. Replace the affected joint or complete shaft.
• Torque the axle nuts to spec and re-stake, incorrect torque can shorten bearing and CV life.

If you’ve been searching for “2009 Toyota Wish universal-joints”, you’re likely after CV joint or drive shaft service. That’s the right target for this model’s drivetrain.

Popular questions about 2009 Toyota Wish universal-joints

Does a 2009 Toyota Wish have universal joints in the drivetrain?
Not in the usual sense. The 2009 Wish uses CV joints on its front drive shafts and doesn’t have a rear prop shaft with U‑joints. The only universal joint you’ll find is in the steering intermediate shaft, which isn’t part of the driveline.

What should be maintained instead of driveline universal joints?
Focus on the CV boots and joints. Check boots for splits and grease leaks at regular servicing, and listen for clicking on full lock or shudder on take‑off. Reboot and repack clean joints, or replace the joint/shaft if wear is present. Correct axle nut torque is also important.

How can someone tell if the steering column U‑joint is worn?
Symptoms include a notchy feel when turning the wheel, a slight bind near centre, or a dull clunk felt through the column over bumps. If those show up, the intermediate shaft assembly is usually replaced rather than lubricated.