Parts for your 2013 Nissan Pathfinder-Universal joints

2013 Nissan Pathfinder Universal Joints (U‑joints): What’s fitted and what to service

Based on the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder (R52) factory Service Manual (Driveline/Propeller Shaft section), the Nissan parts catalogue for R52, and repair databases such as ALLDATA and Mitchell 1, universal joints are used on AWD (4x4/All-Mode AWD) models via the propeller shaft that links the power transfer unit to the rear drive module. The U‑joints on this shaft are staked and non-serviceable, Nissan specifies replacement of the complete propeller shaft assembly if a U‑joint fails. Front-wheel drive (2WD) Pathfinders do not have a propeller shaft and therefore have no U‑joints, their front drive shafts use CV joints instead.

For AWD owners, the universal joints do a simple but critical job: they let the propeller shaft run at an angle while the suspension moves, keeping drive sent smoothly to the rear wheels without binding or vibration. They handle the up-and-down motion of the rear subframe and any slight misalignment between the transfer unit and rear diff, all while dealing with engine torque and road shocks.

On the R52 Pathfinder, the U‑joints are sealed for life and aren’t designed for greasing. That means servicing is all about inspection and timely replacement. During routine servicing, a tech should check for free play at the rear prop shaft flanges, look for rust staining around the bearing caps, and note any shiny “sling” marks from a drying cap seal. If there’s a chirp that speeds up with road speed, a clunk on take‑off, or a fine vibration around 80–110 km/h under load, it’s time for a closer look.

Because the U‑joints are staked, Nissan’s approved fix is to replace the entire propeller shaft. A good workshop will mark the flanges before removal to help maintain balance, torque the flange bolts to spec, and check the centre support bearing and rear diff/transfer oil seals while they’re there. On a hoist, the job is straightforward and typically booked at around an hour or two, depending on equipment and corrosion. Aftermarket rebuilders can sometimes fit replacement joints, but that’s outside Nissan’s guidance and balance/warranty risks sit with the rebuilder.

There’s no periodic lubrication to do, so prevention is about keeping an ear out for new noises, avoiding deep water that can push past ageing seals, and getting any driveline vibration diagnosed early so it doesn’t hammer the power transfer unit or rear diff.

• AWD models: U‑joints fitted on propeller shaft, non-serviceable (assembly replacement).
• 2WD models: No propeller shaft, no U‑joints, CV joints used on front drive shafts.

Popular questions

Do all 2013 Pathfinders have U‑joints?
Not all. AWD (4x4) models have U‑joints on the propeller shaft to the rear. 2WD models don’t have a prop shaft, so no U‑joints—just CV joints on the front axles.

Can the U‑joints be lubricated or replaced on their own?
No factory provision for lubrication. On R52, the U‑joints are staked and considered non-serviceable, so Nissan specifies replacing the complete propeller shaft. Some driveline specialists may rebuild them, but that’s not per Nissan’s procedure.

What are the signs a Pathfinder U‑joint is failing?
Common signs include a clunk when shifting from reverse to drive, a chirp or squeak that follows road speed, and a vibration under load or at certain speeds. Any of these should prompt an inspection before other driveline parts cop damage.