Parts for your 2010 Toyota Blade-Universal joints

2010 Toyota Blade universal joints — are they used, and what should be serviced instead?

Drawing on Toyota’s New Car Features (E150 Auris/Blade), the Toyota Repair Manual for AZE154H/GRE156H (2010 Blade), and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue for these models, the 2010 Toyota Blade is a front‑wheel‑drive hatch and does not use propeller‑shaft universal joints in its driveline. The front drive shafts are built around constant‑velocity (CV) joints — tripod type on the inboard side and Rzeppa type on the outboard side — specifically because they maintain constant rotational speed at high steering and suspension angles. A small cross‑type universal joint is present only in the steering intermediate shaft, not in the drive system.

Why universal joints aren’t used on the Blade’s driveline:

• Front‑wheel‑drive layout: There’s no rear differential or prop shaft, so there’s nowhere for traditional cardan U‑joints to live.
• Constant velocity needs: CV joints prevent speed fluctuation through angles, giving smooth power delivery while turning — something a single U‑joint can’t do without a companion joint and careful phasing.
• Packaging and NVH: CVs suit the tight transaxle packaging and deliver better refinement for everyday driving.

If someone’s searching for “universal joints” for a 2010 Blade, what they likely need are CV joint parts or a complete drive shaft assembly. As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect CV boots every service interval for cracks, splits, or grease fling. Catching a torn boot early saves the joint from contamination and wear. Typical symptoms of a worn outer CV are clicking or popping on full lock, while inner CV wear can show up as vibration on acceleration. Replacement is usually by swapping the boot and joint kit or the complete shaft, use quality grease and new clamps, and torque the hub nut to spec per the Toyota Repair Manual.

About the steering universal joint: the intermediate shaft’s U‑joint isn’t a greaseable item. If there’s notchiness, binding, surface rust, or free play felt through the wheel (often picked up at a WOF/roadworthy), the repair is to replace the intermediate shaft assembly as per Toyota’s service guidance. That keeps steering feel crisp and keeps the inspector happy.

• FAQ 1: Does a 2010 Toyota Blade have universal joints?
• FAQ 2: What should be serviced instead of universal joints on a Blade?
• FAQ 3: Can the Blade’s steering universal joint be replaced on its own?

Does a 2010 Toyota Blade have universal joints?
Not in the driveline. Technical documentation shows the Blade is front‑wheel drive and uses CV joints on the front shafts. The only universal joint on the car is in the steering intermediate shaft.

What should be serviced instead of universal joints on a Blade?
Focus on the CV joints and boots. Check for split boots, grease fling on the inner guards, and clicking on turns. Replace the boot and joint or the complete shaft if there’s wear, and always follow Toyota torque specs.

Can the Blade’s steering universal joint be replaced on its own?
Toyota typically supplies the steering intermediate shaft as an assembly. If the U‑joint is stiff, corroded, or has play, replace the intermediate shaft unit. There are no lubrication points, it’s a replace‑when‑worn item.