Parts for your 2012 Nissan Navara-Cv joint

2012 Nissan Navara CV Joint — purpose, care and when to replace

Based on technical sources such as the Nissan Navara D40 Series Service Manual (Front Axle & Front Final Drive), the Nissan parts catalogue for D40 4x4 models, and workshop guides like the Haynes Navara/Pathfinder Diesel 2005–2014 manual, the 2012 Nissan Navara (D40) 4x4 uses CV joints on the front driveshafts. These constant velocity joints allow the independent front suspension to steer and move through its travel while still delivering drive from the front differential to the hubs. On 2WD Navara models, there are no front driveshafts or CV joints, the rear uses a live axle with universal joints instead.

For 4x4 utes, the CV joint is a key player in quiet, smooth power delivery, especially at full steering lock or over rough tracks. Each front shaft typically has an inner and outer CV, packed with high-moly grease and sealed by rubber boots. The boots are the heroes here — keep them intact and the joints usually live a long life.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the CV boots every 10,000–15,000 kilometres or whenever the front end is up for brakes, tyres or suspension work. Look for grease spray on the inner guard or lower control arm, splits or perishing in the rubber, and any play at the joint. Catching a torn boot early often saves the joint — a fresh boot and grease can be all that’s needed if there’s no clicking or notchiness.

• Common signs it’s time: clicking or clacking on turns (outer CV), shudder on take-off (inner CV), vibration under load, or visible boot damage with grease loss.
• Off-road and beach use accelerate wear, salt, sand and lifted suspensions change angles and load the joints more.

When replacement is due, many owners opt for complete shaft assemblies — it’s quick, often cost-effective, and renews both joints at once. If only the boot has failed and the joint’s still smooth, a boot kit and repack can be fine. During fitment, always use new hub nuts and circlips as supplied, seat the shaft fully in the diff, and torque fasteners to factory spec. Afterwards, check front diff oil level, road test for noises, and recheck the axle nut stake. A wheel alignment isn’t usually required for a shaft swap, but it’s worth checking if suspension components were disturbed.

• Popular questions about 2012 Nissan Navara CV joints

Does every 2012 Navara have CV joints?
4x4 D40 models have front CV-jointed driveshafts. 2WD models don’t have front CVs because they’re not driving the front wheels, they use a rear prop shaft with universal joints instead.

What are the tell-tale signs of a worn CV joint?
The classic symptom is a rhythmic clicking on low-speed turns, usually pointing to the outer joint. You may also notice vibration under load, grease flung around the wheel arch, or a torn boot. If the joint feels notchy by hand, replacement is the go.

Should they replace the whole shaft or just the boot/joint?
If the boot’s torn but the joint is still silky-smooth, a new boot and grease can be perfectly fine. If there’s clicking, corrosion or play, a complete shaft assembly often makes sense for longevity and value, renewing both inner and outer joints in one hit.