Parts for your 2013 Honda Cr-v-Universal joints

2013 Honda CR‑V universal joints (U‑joints)

Yes, universal joints are relevant to the 2013 Honda CR‑V — but only on AWD models. The front-wheel drive CR‑V uses CV joints at the front axles and has no propeller shaft, so no U‑joints. On AWD variants, Honda’s 2012–2014 CR‑V Service Manual (AWD Driveline > Propeller Shaft) shows a propeller shaft with two cross‑type U‑joints and a centre support bearing. Honda’s genuine parts catalogues for the 2013 CR‑V list the propeller shaft as an assembly, with the U‑joints described as non‑serviceable items. That’s why most repairs involve replacing the whole shaft rather than individual U‑joints.

What do they do? The U‑joints let the propeller shaft transmit torque to the rear differential while the angles between components change over bumps, body roll and engine movement. Think of them as the flexible knuckles that keep the shaft spinning smoothly despite those small misalignments. They’re different to the CV joints on the front axles, which handle larger steering angles and are booted and grease‑packed.

Servicing is mostly inspection, because the factory U‑joints are sealed with no grease nipples. During routine servicing on an AWD CR‑V, a technician should check for play at each joint, look for rust dust around the bearing caps, and inspect the centre support bearing and prop shaft flanges. A road test can help pick up classic symptoms like a low‑speed clunk on take‑off or shift, and a buzz or vibration at steady speeds (often around 60–100 km/h) that changes with throttle.

If there’s confirmed wear or binding, the recommended fix per Honda literature is replacement of the complete propeller shaft assembly. Some driveline specialists can rebuild the shaft and install serviceable U‑joints, but that’s outside Honda’s standard procedure. When replacing, it’s smart to mark flange positions for balance, use new hardware where specified, and torque to spec. After refit, a quick recheck for vibrations and a centre bearing alignment check keeps things tidy. While at it, fresh DPSF fluid in the rear diff (per Honda intervals) helps reduce driveline shudder that can be mistaken for U‑joint vibes.

• AWD symptoms of worn U‑joints: clunk on take‑off, chirp at low speed, or a speed‑related vibration under load.
• FWD owners: no U‑joints fitted — focus inspections on CV boots and joints instead.

Popular questions about 2013 Honda CR‑V universal joints

Does a 2013 Honda CR‑V have universal joints?
AWD models do — they use two U‑joints on the rear propeller shaft. Front‑wheel drive models don’t have a prop shaft, so no U‑joints, only CV joints at the front axles.

Can the U‑joints be greased or replaced separately?
From factory, the CR‑V’s prop shaft U‑joints are sealed and non‑greaseable. Honda supplies the propeller shaft as a complete assembly. Some driveline shops can rebuild and fit serviceable U‑joints, but that’s a specialist repair rather than the standard Honda method.

What are the signs the U‑joints need attention?
Listen and feel for a clunk when shifting from reverse to drive or taking off, a light chirp at low speeds, or a vibration that comes in at highway speeds and changes with throttle. Any free play at the joints or rust‑coloured dust near the caps is also a giveaway during inspection.