Parts for your 2010 Nissan Navara-Driveshafts

2010 Nissan Navara driveshafts — what they do and how to look after them

Driveshafts are absolutely relevant to the 2010 Nissan Navara (D40). Factory technical sources like the Nissan Navara D40 Service Manual (Propeller/Front Drive Shaft sections) and parts catalogues list a rear propeller shaft to the differential on 4x2 models, plus a front propeller shaft and front CV driveshafts on 4x4 variants. In short, every 2010 Navara runs a driveshaft to get power to the wheels, and most 4x4s also have front CV shafts to drive the hubs.

On a Navara, the driveshafts’ job is to transfer torque from the gearbox/transfer case to the diffs and, on 4x4 models, from the front diff to the wheels. The rear prop shaft is usually a two-piece unit with universal joints (U‑joints) and a centre bearing, while the front end uses CV driveshafts with flexible boots to handle steering angles and suspension travel. When they’re healthy, they’re quiet, smooth and tough. When they’re not, they’ll let the driver know with vibrations, clunks or clicking.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect driveshafts every 10,000–15,000 km or at each service, especially if the ute sees off‑road work. Look for split CV boots, grease flung around the wheel arch, cracked or sagging centre bearings, loose flange bolts, rust-coloured dust near U‑joints, or any dents in the tube. After water crossings or muddy trips, give the boots and joints an extra once‑over. Many OEM U‑joints are sealed, but some aftermarket parts are greasable — if fitted, a light grease at service time helps longevity.

• Vibration under load or at highway speed can point to worn U‑joints, a failing centre bearing, or a bent shaft.
• Clunk on take‑off or shifting is often U‑joint or slip joint wear.
• Clicking on turns up front is classic CV joint wear.

Replacement tips that save headaches: mark the shaft flanges before removal so it goes back in the same orientation (helps keep balance and phasing), always torque flange bolts correctly, if a centre bearing rubber is split, replace it with the bearing as needed, and if a shaft’s been dinged or heavily corroded, consider a quality new or professionally reconditioned unit. For front CVs, if one is worn and the other has similar kilometres and boot condition, many techs will recommend replacing both sides to keep driveline feel consistent. A road test after fitment — checking for vibrations and re‑inspecting fasteners — is a must.

Popular questions about 2010 Nissan Navara driveshafts

How often should driveshafts be checked on a 2010 Navara?
They’re not a scheduled replacement item, but they should be inspected at every regular service or before big trips. For vehicles doing beach runs, towing or off‑road work, a quick look after each outing — especially at CV boots and the centre bearing — is cheap insurance.

What’s the difference between CV shaft noise and a prop shaft issue?
Front CV problems usually click or knock on low‑speed turns and may fling grease from a torn boot. Rear prop shaft or centre bearing issues more often show as a shudder or vibration on take‑off or at certain speeds, and sometimes a clunk when shifting from drive to reverse.

Can a Navara driveshaft be repaired, or does it need full replacement?
It depends on the fault. U‑joints, centre bearings and CV shafts can often be replaced without buying a complete assembly. Bent or badly corroded prop shafts should be replaced or professionally straightened and rebalanced to avoid ongoing vibration.