Parts for your 2012 Nissan Serena-Driveshafts

Everything You Need to Know About Driveshafts on the 2012 Nissan Serena

The 2012 Nissan Serena is a popular people mover well-known for its practicality and comfortable ride. When diving into its mechanical setup, one component that often comes up in discussions about vehicle drivetrains is the driveshaft. But are driveshafts actually used in the 2012 Nissan Serena? The short answer is yes, but the details depend on the vehicle's specific drivetrain layout.

The Nissan Serena from this year is mostly available with a front-wheel-drive (FWD) configuration, although some markets and versions offer all-wheel-drive (AWD) models as well. In a standard FWD model, the technical design uses a transaxle where the transmission and differential are combined at the front of the vehicle. This layout means the power from the engine is transmitted directly to the front wheels through short half-shafts or drive axles - but a traditional long driveshaft running the length of the vehicle from front to rear is not fitted since there is no need to transfer power to the rear wheels.

On the other hand, if you have an AWD version of the 2012 Nissan Serena, then it will feature driveshafts. This is because an AWD system needs to send engine power not only to the front wheels but also to the rear wheels. The driveshaft(s) in this case act as the critical components that transfer torque through the centre differential or transfer case to the rear axle. Essentially, they are long rotating shafts that connect the front gearbox output to the rear differential, enabling power delivery to the rear wheels and improving traction and handling in slippery or uneven conditions.

For those with an AWD Nissan Serena, driveshafts are essential parts of the drivetrain and proper maintenance is important to keep the vehicle running smoothly. The common term "driveshaft" often encompasses the entire shaft assembly including the universal joints (U-joints), CV joints, and sometimes the splined sections that allow for length changes during suspension movement. Any wear or damage to these parts can cause vibrations, noise, and even potential driveloss or mechanical failure.

When it comes to servicing the driveshafts on a 2012 Nissan Serena AWD, it's always a good idea to have them inspected regularly. This includes checking for torn CV joint boots which protect the joint grease from contamination and prevent wear. If the boots are damaged or leaking grease, the CV joints could quickly fail. Similarly, universal joints need lubrication or replacement if they show excessive play or stiffness. Driveshafts themselves should be checked for bends, cracks, or corrosion since these faults can cause imbalance and vibration during driving.

Replacement of driveshaft components is not typically an everyday task but is important if there are symptoms like clicking noises when turning, clunking under acceleration, shuddering while driving, or obvious grease leaks. Replacing a worn driveshaft or U-joint assembly can restore smooth operation and prevent damage to the surrounding drivetrain parts. Australian mechanics often recommend having driveshafts inspected during regular logbook servicing or if the vehicle is often driven in harsh conditions such as off-road or coastal areas where salt and dirt can accelerate wear.

Some tips for looking after the driveshafts in a Nissan Serena include avoiding harsh driving habits like aggressive cornering or rapid acceleration, which places extra stress on drivetrain components. Regularly cleaning the underside of the vehicle, especially after trips through mud or water, also helps protect the protective boots and joints from premature deterioration. Because the driveshafts are metal components that move at high speeds, even small damage or imbalances can become major problems if ignored.

On top of maintenance, if an owner plans to upgrade their vehicle or perform modifications like suspension lifts or bigger tyres, it's wise to check if the driveshafts remain compatible. Changes in vehicle height or wheel size can affect driveshaft angles and length, potentially leading to increased wear or failure if not properly addressed.

In a nutshell, if you are driving a 2012 Nissan Serena with AWD, the driveshaft is a crucial piece of the puzzle that keeps power flowing smoothly from the engine to all four wheels. Taking care of it through routine inspection, timely replacement of worn parts, and cautious driving will help keep the Serena reliable and comfortable for years to come.