Parts for your 2014 Nissan Pulsar-Universal joints

2014 Nissan Pulsar universal-joints — what’s actually on the car

Technical sources show the 2014 Nissan Pulsar (C12 hatch and B17 sedan) doesn’t use universal-joints in its driveline. The Nissan Factory Service Manual for these models details front drive shafts with inner and outer constant velocity joints in the FAX (Front Axle) section, and there’s no propeller shaft or rear differential section at all — which you’d expect if driveline U-joints were fitted. The Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue (FAST) for C12/B17 likewise lists CV-joint front shafts only. The ST (Steering) section does list a small universal joint as part of the intermediate steering shaft, but that’s a steering component, not part of the drive system.

Why no driveline universal-joints on a Pulsar? Being front‑wheel drive, the Pulsar needs joints that can transmit power smoothly while the front wheels steer and move through suspension travel. That’s where CV joints shine: they deliver constant velocity at larger operating angles without the speed fluctuations a traditional U-joint creates. U-joints are more common on rear‑wheel drive and 4WD prop shafts, where angles are smaller and packaging is different. So Nissan engineered the Pulsar with CV joints on the front axles and left U-joints to the steering column only.

What should owners look after instead? Focus on the CV joints and their rubber boots. Split boots let grease escape and water/dirt get in, which quickly wears the joint. Typical signs of outer CV wear are a clicking or ticking noise on full lock. Inner CV issues can show up as a shudder or vibration under acceleration. Periodic visual checks during servicing — looking for torn boots or grease thrown around the inside of the wheel/guard — go a long way.

There is a universal joint in the steering intermediate shaft. It’s a sealed, non‑serviceable item that can develop play, rust binding, or notchiness with age. If the steering feels sticky, has free play around centre, or you hear a clunk through the column over bumps, have a tech check the intermediate shaft and column joints and replace the assembly if required.

• Clicking on turns: usually outer CV joint wear.
• Vibration on throttle: often inner CV joint or an engine/trans mount.
• Clunk or stiffness in the wheel: could be the steering column U‑joint.

Technical references: Nissan Pulsar C12/B17 Factory Service Manual — FAX (Front Axle) details inner/outer CV joints, no propeller shaft section present. ST (Steering) identifies the intermediate shaft with a universal joint. Nissan FAST parts catalogue for C12/B17 confirms CV-type front shafts and the steering intermediate joint assembly.

Does a 2014 Nissan Pulsar have universal-joints in the driveline?

No. It’s a front‑wheel drive layout with CV joints on the front axles. The only universal joint on the vehicle is part of the steering intermediate shaft.

What noises point to CV joints versus a steering U‑joint?

Clicking on full lock usually points to an outer CV joint. A shake under acceleration often points to the inner CV joint. A clunk in the column, sticky on‑centre feel, or notchiness when turning the wheel points more to the steering intermediate shaft U‑joint.

Is there any servicing for the Pulsar’s universal-joints?

There’s no scheduled service for a steering U‑joint — it’s sealed and replaced as an assembly if worn. During regular servicing, have the tech check for play or binding in the column and inspect CV boots for splits and grease leaks.