Parts for your 2014 Honda Stream-Universal joints

2014 Honda Stream universal joints — are they used?

Universal joints aren’t used in the 2014 Honda Stream’s driveline. The Stream (RN6–RN9) runs a transverse front-wheel-drive layout with a transaxle and two front driveshafts that use constant velocity (CV) joints at both ends, not cross-type universal joints. This isn’t just workshop lore: the Honda Service Manual for RN6–RN9 details inboard tripod CV joints and outboard Rzeppa CV joints on the halfshafts, and there’s no propeller shaft listed in the Honda electronic parts catalogue for this model year. From an engineering standpoint, references such as the Bosch Automotive Handbook and SAE driveline texts note that FWD axles require CV joints to maintain constant angular velocity through large steering and suspension angles — a job universal joints can’t do without inducing speed fluctuation and vibration.

So, why no universal joints? In a typical rear-wheel-drive or 4WD vehicle with a longitudinal prop shaft, universal joints are used at the shaft ends to cope with alignment changes. The 2014 Stream doesn’t have a prop shaft, so there’s nowhere for those U-joints to live. Its CV-jointed halfshafts accommodate suspension travel and steering lock smoothly, keeping torque delivery consistent and the front end free of shudder.

• What to service instead: keep an eye on the CV boots. If a boot splits and flings grease, the joint can wear quickly. Replace torn boots promptly and listen for clicking on full lock — a classic sign of an outer CV joint on the way out.
• Where a “U-joint” does exist: the steering intermediate shaft uses small universal joints, but these are part of the steering column assembly and aren’t the same as driveline prop-shaft U-joints listed in parts catalogues.
• Why some catalogues show “universal joints” for Stream: generic fitment filters sometimes lump FWD models into broad driveline categories. For the 2014 Stream’s driveline, they’re not applicable.

Technical sources referenced: Honda Stream RN6–RN9 Service Manual (Driveshaft/Driveline section specifying tripod and Rzeppa CV joints), Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue for RN6–RN9 (no propeller shaft or prop-shaft U-joints listed), Bosch Automotive Handbook and SAE driveline fundamentals (FWD axles require CV joints for constant angular velocity through steering angles).

Popular questions

Does the 2014 Honda Stream have universal joints in the driveline?
No. It uses CV joints on the front driveshafts and has no rear prop shaft, so there are no prop-shaft-style universal joints to replace. That’s consistent with Honda’s service documentation for the RN6–RN9 Stream.

What should owners service instead of universal joints?
Focus on the CV joints and boots. Inspect the rubber boots at regular services, especially if the vehicle sees lots of stop–start or tight parking manoeuvres. Any grease sling or splits mean a boot (and sometimes the joint) should be replaced to avoid costly wear.

Are there any universal joints anywhere on the car?
Yes, the steering intermediate shaft uses small U-joints to transmit steering input. They’re separate from the driveline, rarely fail, and are handled as part of the steering column/shaft assembly if they ever develop play or stiffness.