Parts for your 2014 Toyota Bb-Universal joints

2014 Toyota bB universal joints — are they even a thing?

Short answer: for most 2014 Toyota bB models, universal joints aren’t a relevant service item. Toyota’s own technical sources back this up. The Toyota Electronic Parts Catalog (EPC) for the QNC20/21/25 series (the 2005–2016 bB range that includes the 2014 model year) and Toyota service literature for Drivetrain/Driveline show that the front‑wheel drive bB (QNC20/21) runs a transaxle with left/right drive shafts using constant velocity (CV) joints only, there’s no propeller shaft and no driveline universal joints. By contrast, the 4WD variant (QNC25) adds a propeller shaft that uses cross‑type universal joints at each end. So unless the vehicle is the 4WD model, “universal joints” aren’t used in the driveline.

Why are universal joints not used on the typical 2WD 2014 bB? The layout is the key. With the engine and gearbox up front driving the front wheels, the bB uses CV joints on short half‑shafts to handle suspension movement and (on the right side) steering angle. CV joints are smoother and better suited to front‑drive packaging and NVH targets, so Toyota doesn’t need prop‑shaft U‑joints on the 2WD bB at all. This is consistent with the Toyota EPC’s lack of a “Propeller Shaft” parts group for QNC20/21, and the presence of that group (with universal joints) only on QNC25 4WD listings.

Worth noting: like many cars, the bB has a small universal joint in the steering intermediate shaft, but that’s separate from driveline “universal joints” and usually only needs attention if there’s a stiff spot or clunk in the steering.

• If the bB is 2WD: focus on CV boots and joints — split boots, grease fling, or clicking on full lock are the classic signs to sort at service time.
• If it’s the 4WD QNC25: there are prop‑shaft universal joints, check for vibration under load, shudder on take‑off, or clunks when shifting from drive to reverse. Any play or seized caps means repair or replacement.
• Steering feel off? Inspect the steering shaft U‑joint for rust binding or free play.

Technical references: Toyota Electronic Parts Catalog (QNC20/21 FF vs QNC25 4WD driveline listings) and Toyota service literature for the bB Drivetrain/Driveline and Steering sections for the 2005–2016 model series covering the 2014 year.

Popular questions

Does a 2014 Toyota bB have universal joints?
Most 2014 bB cars in Australia and New Zealand are front‑wheel drive and don’t use driveline universal joints — they use CV joints on the front axles. The exception is the 4WD QNC25 model, which has a propeller shaft with universal joints.

How can someone tell if theirs is the 4WD version that uses U‑joints?
Look underneath for a propeller shaft running down the centre tunnel, check for a 4WD badge or selector, and verify the model code on the build/compliance plate (QNC25 denotes 4WD). A workshop can confirm by VIN in the Toyota EPC.

What should be serviced instead if it’s a 2WD bB?
Keep an eye on CV boots and joints, listen for clicking on full lock, and inspect the steering intermediate shaft U‑joint if there’s a notchiness or clunk in the wheel. Regular checks prevent bigger bills down the track.