Parts for your 2011 Ford Falcon-Universal joints

2011 Ford Falcon universal joints

Based on technical sources, universal joints are indeed used on the 2011 Ford Falcon. The Ford FG Falcon Workshop Manual (Driveline – Propeller Shaft) describes a two-piece tailshaft with a centre bearing, a constant velocity (CV) joint at the gearbox end, and a universal joint at the differential end. Australian driveline catalogues from Hardy Spicer (e.g., HS163 series) and GMB also list rear universal joints for BA/BF/FG Falcons, confirming fitment on 2011 models.

On a 2011 Falcon, the rear universal joint (often just called a “uni”) lets the tailshaft transfer torque to the diff while the suspension moves and the shaft runs at a slight angle. It’s a tough little hinge that keeps things smooth and quiet when everything’s healthy. In the FG generation, Ford went with a CV at the front for extra refinement and used a uni at the rear for durability and serviceability.

For servicing, it’s smart to check the uni at each regular service, especially once the car’s past 150,000 km or if it’s been towing or lowered. Tell-tale signs of a worn uni include a clunk on take-off, a shudder under load, a rhythmic vibration around 60–100 km/h, or a squeak at low speed that changes with road speed. Any red dust around the bearing caps, looseness when you twist the shaft by hand, or tight “notchy” movement off the car points to replacement time.

Most OE unis on these Falcons are sealed-for-life, but some aftermarket replacements have grease nipples. If it’s a greasable unit, a couple of pumps of quality NLGI 2 lithium (or lithium complex) grease at service intervals will keep it happy. If it’s sealed, just inspect for play and leaks. When replacing, mark the yokes so the tailshaft goes back in the same orientation for balance, support the shaft properly, and use the correct circlip seating and torque values from the workshop manual. It’s common to assess the centre bearing at the same time, if the rubber support is cracked or the bearing’s rough, do both while the shaft’s out. After any uni replacement, a balance check of the tailshaft is good practice to keep NVH in check.

• Watch for clunks, squeaks, and vibrations under load or on overrun.
• Inspect uni play and cap seals every service, grease only if the joint is serviceable.
• If ride height is altered, keep driveline angles sensible to prevent premature wear.

Popular questions

Does a 2011 Ford Falcon have universal joints or CV joints?
It has both. The typical FG Falcon uses a CV joint at the gearbox end and a universal joint at the differential end of the two-piece tailshaft. That combo keeps NVH low while staying robust at the rear. Variants across XR6, XR6T, and many utes share this layout, but always check by VIN if unsure.

How long do the universal joints last, and what does replacement cost?
On a well-kept Falcon, a rear uni can last 150,000–300,000 km, but heavy towing, harsh roads, or incorrect driveline angles can shorten that. In Australia and New Zealand, quality replacement joints are typically $40–$120 for the part, with 1–2 hours of labour. If a tailshaft balance is done at the same time, allow a bit extra.

Can the uni on a 2011 Falcon be greased?
Factory joints are usually sealed. Aftermarket replacements may have a grease nipple. If yours is greasable, give it a light service with NLGI 2 lithium or lithium-complex grease at regular service intervals. If it’s sealed, don’t try to force grease—just inspect for play and replace when worn.