Parts for your 2013 Toyota Wish-Universal joints

2013 Toyota Wish universal joints: used or not?

Based on Toyota technical literature — including the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (ZGE20W/ZGE25W), the New Car Features guide for the ZGE2# series, and the Drivetrain sections of the Toyota Repair Manual — a 2013 Toyota Wish that’s front‑wheel drive (the most common spec in Australia and New Zealand) does not use driveline universal joints. Instead, it runs constant velocity (CV) joints on its left and right front drive shafts. Universal joints do appear on the steering intermediate shaft, but those are a separate steering component, not part of the drive shafts. On the less common AWD grade (chassis code ZGE25W), a propeller shaft is fitted and that shaft uses universal joints at its ends.

Why the difference? CV joints are the go‑to for front‑drive layouts because they deliver true constant velocity at larger operating angles — exactly what’s needed when the front wheels are both driving and steering. A universal joint, by contrast, introduces speed fluctuation (the classic “Cardan effect”) as it rotates at an angle, which can cause vibration and wear. CV joints also package neatly with MacPherson strut front ends and help keep noise, vibration and harshness low, which Toyota prioritises on MPVs like the Wish. The parts information for ZGE20W/21W shows “Front Drive Shaft Assembly” with inner tripod and outer Rzeppa‑type CV joints, no universal joint listed. For ZGE25W AWD, the catalogue adds a “Propeller Shaft Assembly” that does list universal joints — that’s the exception.

• If the vehicle is FWD: no driveline universal joints, focus maintenance on CV boots and grease integrity.
• If the vehicle is AWD (ZGE25W): a two‑piece prop shaft with universal joints is present, these require inspection for play, dryness, or binding.
• All grades have a small steering column U‑joint, issues there show up as notchy steering rather than driveline vibration.

FAQs

Does a 2013 Toyota Wish have universal joints?

Most 2013 Wish models in AUS/NZ imports are front‑wheel drive and don’t use driveline universal joints, they use CV joints on the front shafts. The AWD ZGE25W variant does have universal joints on its propeller shaft. There’s also a small U‑joint in the steering column on all grades, but that’s a steering component, not a driveshaft part.

What are the symptoms of worn universal joints on an AWD Wish?

On ZGE25W AWD, worn prop‑shaft U‑joints usually show up as a rhythmic vibration that rises with road speed, a clunk on take‑off or shift from drive to reverse, or a chirping/squeak that changes with vehicle speed. Any noticeable play at the joint caps during an under‑car inspection is a red flag and warrants replacement.

What should be serviced instead on FWD models if there are no universal joints?

For FWD Wish grades, keep an eye on CV boots for splits and grease fling, listen for clicking on full lock (outer joint wear), and check for shudder under load (inner joint wear). Replacing a damaged boot early can save the joint, once grit gets in and the grease is gone, the joint will usually need replacement.