Parts for your 2014 Toyota Vitz|yaris-Universal joints

2014 Toyota Vitz/Yaris universal joints — are they actually used?

Short answer: for most 2014 Toyota Vitz/Yaris models (XP130 series) in Australia and New Zealand, universal joints aren’t used in the driveline. These front‑wheel drive cars use constant velocity (CV) joints on the front driveshafts, and there’s no tailshaft/propeller shaft that would normally require universal joints. A small universal joint does exist in the steering intermediate shaft, but that’s a different system and not the “driveshaft U‑joint” people usually mean.

This conclusion matches the Toyota technical literature: the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) for NCP130/NSP130 lists inboard and outboard CV joints on the front drive shafts and no propeller shaft assembly, the Toyota New Car Features (NCF) for XP130 describes a transaxle FWD layout, and the Toyota Repair Manual shows no “Propeller Shaft” section for FWD models. Only certain Japan‑market 4WD Vitz variants (e.g., NCP135) include a propeller shaft with universal joints and a rear differential.

Why aren’t universal joints used on the typical 2014 Vitz/Yaris? Because the FWD layout sends power through short front driveshafts that must steer and articulate through large angles. CV joints deliver smooth, constant velocity at those angles without the speed fluctuation a traditional cardan (U‑joint) introduces. That makes CVs the go‑to for modern FWD packaging, refinement, and durability. Universal joints are more common on rear‑wheel drive and traditional AWD vehicles that use a long propeller shaft to the rear diff.

What should owners focus on instead? Inspect the front CV boots at regular service intervals for cracks, splits, or grease fling, and listen for clicking on full lock — classic signs a CV joint needs attention. The steering intermediate shaft U‑joint is generally maintenance‑free, if there’s stiffness or notchiness in the steering column, that joint can be checked and replaced as an assembly if required.

• Key sources referenced: Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (NCP130/NSP130), Toyota New Car Features (XP130), Toyota Repair Manual sections for Front Drive Shaft (FWD) and Propeller Shaft (4WD/JDM only).

Popular questions

Does my 2014 Yaris have universal joints?
Most AU/NZ 2014 Yaris (FWD) have no driveline U‑joints. They use CV joints on the front axles. There is a separate universal joint in the steering intermediate shaft, but that’s not part of the engine‑to‑wheel driveline.

What should I maintain instead of universal joints on a Yaris?
Keep an eye on CV boots and listen for clicking on turns. Replace torn boots promptly to protect the CV joints. Also check for vibration under load, which can point to worn CVs or unbalanced wheels/tyres.

How can I tell if a Japanese‑import 4WD Vitz has driveline U‑joints?
Look for a rear differential and a propeller shaft under the car. The model code (e.g., NCP135) and the Toyota EPC listing for a propeller shaft with two U‑joints confirm it. Those U‑joints should be inspected for play and noise, and the shaft checked for balance if there’s vibration.