Parts for your 2013 Honda Stream-Driveshafts

2013 Honda Stream Driveshafts

Driveshafts are absolutely relevant on the 2013 Honda Stream. Technical sources such as the Honda RN6–RN9 Workshop Manual (Driveline/Axle section: Front Drive Shaft Removal/Installation) and the Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue for RN6–RN9 list left and right front drive shafts with constant velocity (CV) joints for this model year. In some Japanese-market variants with Real Time 4WD, Honda literature also shows a rear propeller shaft and rear drive shafts in addition to the front CV shafts. All of that confirms the 2013 Stream is fitted with driveshafts.

On this people-mover, the front driveshafts link the transaxle to the front hubs, sending engine torque to the wheels while allowing the suspension to move up and down and the wheels to steer. Each shaft uses inner and outer CV joints packed with special grease and sealed by flexible rubber boots. When the boots stay intact, the joints usually give years of quiet, smooth service.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to eyeball the driveshaft boots and surrounding areas. Grease flung onto the inner guards or lower control arms, a split boot, clicking on tight turns, or a shudder under acceleration are the classic tells. Catching a torn boot early can save the joint—rebooting and fresh grease is far cheaper than a complete shaft. If a joint is already clicking, replacing the whole shaft is the reliable fix.

• Inspect CV boots at each service or every 10,000–15,000 km, look for cracks, splits, or grease spray near the wheels and undertray.
• Listen for clicking on near-full lock and feel for vibration on take-off, both suggest worn CVs.
• When replacing a shaft, use a new axle nut and circlip, and torque to Honda specifications. Avoid prying against the gearbox seal.
• Wheel alignment isn’t usually needed unless a ball joint, strut, or tie-rod was disturbed, but a quick check never hurts.
• For JDM 4WD variants, also check the rear shaft boots and centre bearing during routine servicing.

Quality matters here. OEM or reputable remanufactured shafts tend to outlast cheap no-name options, and fresh gearbox oil seals are a tidy add-on if there’s any weep at the driveshaft stubs. Treated well, Honda Stream driveshafts commonly run well past 150,000 km, especially with intact boots and regular inspections.

Popular questions about 2013 Honda Stream driveshafts

1) What are the signs the driveshafts need attention?
Typical signs include a rhythmic clicking when turning, a shudder or vibration under acceleration, grease flung around the inner wheel or chassis, and visible splits in the rubber CV boots. If the noise is present even on gentle turns, the joint is likely well worn and the shaft should be replaced.

2) Do driveshafts need replacing in pairs?
Not usually. It’s fine to replace just the faulty side. That said, on high-kilometre vehicles or if both boots are cracking, doing both sides can save a second visit. Always match quality and length to the correct RN chassis code and engine/gearbox combo.

3) Will replacing a driveshaft require a wheel alignment?
Generally no, as the shaft swap doesn’t alter geometry. If the job involved separating a ball joint, moving a strut, or adjusting a tie-rod, then a post-repair alignment check is wise to protect tyres and steering feel.