Parts for your 2011 Toyota Vitz|yaris-Universal joints

2011 Toyota Vitz/Yaris universal joints – are they used?

For the 2011 Toyota Vitz/Yaris in standard 2WD form, universal joints aren’t part of the front driveline. Toyota specifies constant velocity (CV) joints on the left and right front drive shafts, as shown in the factory repair manual and electronic parts catalogue. Universal joints typically live on a propeller shaft in rear- or all-wheel drive layouts, which the common 2WD Vitz/Yaris doesn’t have.

Why’s that the case? CV joints keep the driven wheel turning at a constant speed through suspension travel and steering angles, preventing the speed fluctuation that a single universal joint would introduce. That constant-velocity behaviour makes CVs the right choice for a compact, front-wheel drive hatch used around Aus and NZ. Universal joints do appear elsewhere on the car: the steering intermediate shaft uses small U-joints to link the column to the rack. Also worth noting, certain Japan-only 4WD Vitz variants of this generation use a rear propeller shaft with universal joints, but those models weren’t commonly sold in Australia or New Zealand.

Owners searching for “universal-joints” on this model usually need one of two things:

• Front CV joint/boot service – look for split boots, flung grease, and clicking on tight turns under acceleration. Replace damaged boots early to save the joint, and renew the axle nut to the correct torque on reassembly.
• Steering intermediate shaft U-joint check – symptoms include a notchy feel, tight spots, or a clunk just off centre. The joints are not serviceable, if there’s play or binding, replace the shaft and confirm steering wheel alignment.

Technical references used for this conclusion include: Toyota Vitz/Yaris (XP130) Repair Manual and New Car Features, Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (front drive shaft assemblies with inboard/outboard CV joints, no propeller shaft on 2WD), Toyota Electrical Wiring Diagram (showing the steering intermediate shaft U-joints), and third‑party service guides such as Haynes for Yaris models covering CV joint inspection and replacement practice.

Bottom line: on a 2011 Toyota Vitz/Yaris 2WD, “universal-joints” isn’t a driveline service item. Focus servicing on the CV joints and boots up front, and keep an ear out for any steering column U-joint clunks.

Popular questions

Does a 2011 Toyota Vitz/Yaris have universal joints?
For typical 2WD models, no—there are no driveline universal joints. The car uses CV joints on the front axles. It does, however, have small universal joints in the steering intermediate shaft. Certain Japan-market 4WD versions have propeller shaft U-joints, but these aren’t common in Australia or New Zealand.

What should be serviced instead of universal joints on this Yaris?
Focus on the front CV joints and boots. Check for torn boots, grease sling on the inner guards, and clicking on tight turns. Also assess the steering intermediate shaft for any notchiness or clunks, if present, the shaft assembly is replaced as a unit.

How can someone tell if the CV joints or steering U-joint need attention?
CV joint issues often show as a rhythmic clicking when accelerating while turning, or visible grease around a split boot. A worn steering U-joint feels notchy or may clunk when rocking the wheel slightly off centre. Both should be inspected promptly to prevent further wear or unsafe steering feel.