Parts for your 2010 Mazda Axela-Universal joints

2010 Mazda Axela universal joints – are they used on this model?

Short answer: universal joints aren’t a driveline part on the 2010 Mazda Axela (BL-series). This model runs a transverse front-wheel-drive layout with front half‑shafts that use constant velocity (CV) joints, not U‑joints. There’s no longitudinal propeller shaft in a standard Axela, so there’s nowhere for traditional universal joints to live. Even the high‑output Mazdaspeed/MPS Axela is still FWD and skips a tailshaft and U‑joints.

Why Mazda didn’t fit universal joints comes down to how FWD works. The Axela’s front wheels both drive and steer, so the half‑shafts need to deliver smooth, constant speed at big steering angles. That’s exactly what CV joints (Rzeppa and tripod types) are designed for. A typical U‑joint varies angular velocity as it turns, which would introduce vibration and torque ripple through the front end when cornering. CV joints fix that, are compact, and suit the tight packaging under the bonnet of a transverse engine car.

What the 2010 Axela has instead of U‑joints:

• Front drive shafts with outer Rzeppa CV joints and inner tripod/plunge joints.
• No propeller shaft on FWD models, so no driveline U‑joints front or rear.
• A small universal joint on the steering intermediate shaft may exist, but that’s a steering component, not a driveline U‑joint.

Chasing a clunk or click and thought it might be a U‑joint? On this Mazda it’s far more likely a worn CV joint or a split CV boot that’s let the grease escape and moisture get in. Typical signs include clicking on full lock, shudder on hard acceleration, or grease flung around the inside of the front wheel. During servicing in Aussie and Kiwi conditions—especially coastal areas—inspect CV boots for cracks, check clamps, and look for play at the joints. Replace damaged boots early to save the joint, once water’s in and it’s clicking, a complete shaft or joint replacement is the smart fix. Use quality grease and new retaining clips, and always torque hub nuts to spec after any drive shaft work.

Technical sources referenced: Mazda BL‑series Workshop Manual (Mazda3/Axela, 2009–2013) – Drive Shaft and Front Axle sections, Mazda Electronic Parts Catalogue (BL) – front drive shaft/CV joint listings, Mazda product brochures/specifications noting FWD layout for 2010 Axela/Mazda3, general driveline design texts explaining CV versus universal joint function.

Popular questions

Does a 2010 Mazda Axela have universal joints?
No, not in the driveline. It’s a FWD car using CV joints on the front half‑shafts. There’s no prop shaft, so no traditional U‑joints. A small steering column joint may be present, but that’s a separate steering part.

What’s that clicking noise when turning—U‑joint or CV joint?
On this model it’s almost always a worn outer CV joint, especially if the CV boot has split. Clicking on full lock is the giveaway. Have the boots and joints inspected and replace the joint or complete shaft if there’s play or contamination.

Do AWD versions of the 2010 Axela use U‑joints?
The 2010 Axela range was sold as front‑wheel drive across most markets, including performance MPS variants. Without a rear driveline, there’s no need for U‑joints. If you’re looking at a different Mazda model with AWD, that’s when prop shafts and U‑joints may appear.