Parts for your 2010 Nissan Serena-Cv joint

2010 Nissan Serena CV Joint – what it does and how to look after it

Technical sources such as the Nissan Serena C25/C26 factory service manual (driveline/axle section) and the Nissan FAST electronic parts catalogue identify front drive shafts with inner and outer constant velocity (CV) joints on the 2010 Serena. OE parts listings from major CV suppliers (e.g., GKN, NTN) also specify CV-jointed shafts for this model. That means a CV joint is absolutely relevant and fitted to the 2010 Nissan Serena, on 4WD variants, CV joints are used at the rear axle shafts as well.

On this people mover, the CV joint’s job is to deliver engine torque to the wheels smoothly while the suspension moves and the front wheels steer. The outer joint is typically a Rzeppa type for big steering angles, and the inner joint is a plunging tripod style to allow in–out movement as the suspension compresses. The result is quiet, vibration-free drive under load and full lock, which is exactly what families expect from a Serena on the school run or a long motorway haul.

Common warning signs include:

• Sharp clicking or popping on tight turns, especially under acceleration (outer joint wear).
• Shudder or vibration under load or at motorway speeds (inner joint wear or imbalance).
• Grease flung around the inner guard or control arms, or a split/tacky boot and loose clamps.
• Thump or clunk taking off or selecting Drive/Reverse.

Good servicing habits keep the Serena’s CV joints happy for years. At each service (or every 10,000–15,000 km), inspect both inner and outer boots for cracks, hardness, or grease seepage, and check clamp tension. If a boot is torn but the joint is still quiet, replace the boot promptly and repack with the correct high-moly CV grease, fit OE-style ear clamps so they hold under heat. If the joint clicks or the tracks feel rough, replacement is the go—many workshops prefer complete shaft assemblies for reliability and time savings. When refitting, always follow the Nissan workshop manual for hub/axle nut torque and any new-nut or split-pin requirements. After the job, road test, recheck for grease leaks, and make sure there’s no residual vibration. For 4WD Serenas, apply the same checks to the rear shafts. Staying on top of boots and clamps is cheap insurance compared with a failed joint that can suddenly leave the vehicle with no drive.

How long do CV joints last on a 2010 Nissan Serena?

With intact boots and quality grease, many CV joints run well past 150,000 km. Life varies with load, road grime, and steering angle use (tight city parking can accelerate outer joint wear). 4WD versions can see a bit more stress due to extra driveline angles.

What are the signs the Serena’s CV joint or boot needs attention?

Clicking on turns, vibration under load, or fresh grease sprayed inside the wheel arch are the big giveaways. A cracked or oily boot and loose clamps also spell trouble. Getting onto it early often means a simple boot-and-grease repair rather than a full joint or shaft replacement.

Is it safe to drive with a clicking CV joint?

Not ideal. While some joints click for a while before failing, they can let go suddenly, leaving the vehicle without drive. It’s best to have it checked ASAP and avoid long trips or heavy loads until a technician has inspected it.