Parts for your 2011 Toyota Blade-Universal joints

2011 Toyota Blade and universal joints: what’s actually fitted

Based on Toyota’s technical literature for the E150‑series Blade/Auris platform and the Toyota parts catalogue for 2011 models, the 2011 Toyota Blade is front‑wheel drive and uses constant‑velocity (CV) joints on its front drive shafts — not cross‑type universal joints (Cardan joints) in the driveline. There’s no propeller shaft or rear differential on these FWD variants, so the classic tailshaft universal joints simply aren’t part of the powertrain. Engineering references on front‑drive layouts also note that CV joints (Rzeppa/Birfield outboard, tripod/plunge inboard) are required to maintain constant rotational speed through large steering and suspension angles, something a standard universal joint can’t do without speed fluctuation.

That’s why a “2011toyotablade universaljoints” search won’t turn up a tailshaft U‑joint — it isn’t there. Instead, the Blade’s front axles use CV joints to transmit torque smoothly while the wheels steer and the suspension moves. A traditional universal joint changes output speed as the angle changes, which would cause vibration, shudder and accelerated wear in a front‑drive, front‑steer setup. CV joints solve that by keeping the velocity constant, and the inboard tripod joint also allows plunge to take up suspension travel. It’s the right tool for the job.

Worth noting: the Blade does have small universal‑type couplings in the steering intermediate shaft. These aren’t part of the drivetrain and are different from tailshaft U‑joints. If a driver feels notchiness, binding, or a clunk through the wheel over bumps, a technician may inspect the steering intermediate shaft joints. For routine servicing, focus on the CV side of things — check front axle CV boots for splits, grease fling, or cracks, especially after high‑kilometre use. Replace any damaged boot promptly to prevent CV joint wear. If there’s clicking on full lock or vibration under load, a CV joint inspection is the go.

So, for the 2011 Toyota Blade: no driveline universal joints to replace, CV joints do the heavy lifting. Keep the CV boots healthy, listen for symptoms, and the Blade’s front drive will stay smooth and quiet.

Does a 2011 Toyota Blade have universal joints in the driveline?

No. The Blade is front‑wheel drive and uses CV joints on the front axles. There’s no rear prop shaft, so the classic tailshaft universal joints aren’t used on this model’s powertrain.

What joints are on the front axles, and how are they serviced?

The outboard joints are Rzeppa/Birfield CVs and the inboard joints are tripod/plunge CVs. During servicing, inspect the rubber boots for cracks, splits, or grease leaks. Replace damaged boots promptly, if the joint clicks on full lock or vibrates under load, the joint may need replacement.

Are there any universal joints on a 2011 Blade at all?

Yes — in the steering intermediate shaft. If there’s steering notchiness, a bind at centre, or clunks over bumps, a technician may check those couplings. They’re separate from the drivetrain and addressed as part of steering system repairs.