Parts for your 2012 Toyota Crown-Universal joints

2012 Toyota Crown universal joints: purpose, service and replacement

Technical sources confirm universal joints are indeed fitted to the 2012 Toyota Crown. Toyota service literature for the S200/S210 Crown series (Driveline/Axle – Propeller Shaft) describes a two-piece tailshaft/propeller shaft using cross-and-bearing universal joints at the yokes with a centre support bearing. Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue for 2012 Crown variants (e.g., GRS200/GRS210 and i-Four AWD) illustrates propeller shaft assemblies with yokes and U-joints. Steering intermediate shafts also use a small universal joint, but the driveline joints are the focus here.

On this model, universal joints let the tailshaft transmit power smoothly from the transmission to the differential even as the rear suspension moves, handling both angular change and minor length variation. When they’re healthy, there’s no vibration and no clunk when taking off, when they’re worn, the Crown can develop a shudder on acceleration, a droning or buzz at highway speeds, or a metallic click when shifting from reverse to drive.

From factory, many Crown tailshafts use staked, non-greaseable U-joints. Toyota generally supplies the complete propeller shaft as a replacement rather than individual spider kits. However, reputable driveline specialists can often rebuild the shaft with serviceable, circlip-retained U-joints and then balance it, which suits owners who prefer a repair over full assembly replacement.

• Inspection tips (at regular services): check for free play at each yoke, red/brown rust dust around caps, dried sling marks from failed seals, stiffness or notchiness when the shaft is articulated by hand, and any centre bearing deterioration.
• Typical symptoms: vibration between 60–90 km/h, a dull clunk on take-off or when shifting, chirping sounds at low speed that change with road speed, or visible looseness at the joint.
• Replacement advice: mark flange orientations before removal to preserve phasing, support the two-piece shaft to protect the centre bearing, and follow workshop torque specs on reassembly. Aftermarket greaseable joints (if fitted during a rebuild) should be lubricated every service. Always have the shaft dynamically balanced after joint replacement.

Whether rear-wheel drive or i-Four AWD (which uses front and rear propeller shafts), keeping the Crown’s universal joints in top nick prevents costly collateral damage to the gearbox, differential and mounts, and keeps the big sedan feeling properly refined on Aussie and Kiwi roads.

Popular questions

Does a 2012 Toyota Crown actually have universal joints?
Yes. Toyota’s S200/S210 Crown workshop information and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue both show the propeller (tail) shaft using cross-and-bearing universal joints at the yokes. RWD models have a two-piece rear shaft, AWD i-Four models add a front prop shaft—both use U-joints.

Are the factory U-joints serviceable, or is it a full shaft replacement?
Factory joints are typically staked and non-greaseable, so Toyota specifies replacing the complete propeller shaft assembly when play or roughness is found. Many driveline specialists can rebuild the original shaft with serviceable circlip-type joints and then balance it, which is a sound option if the shaft tube and yokes are in good condition.

What maintenance should be done on Crown U-joints?
During routine servicing, inspect for play, rust dust, stiffness and any vibration complaints. If the shaft has been rebuilt with greaseable joints, give them a pump of quality grease every service interval. Address any vibration or clunk early—driving on a failing joint can escalate into tailshaft damage.