Parts for your 2015 Honda Accord-Universal joints

2015 Honda Accord universal joints — are they used, and what to service instead?

For the 2015 Honda Accord (AU/NZ-spec and most global variants), traditional driveline universal joints aren’t fitted. The Accord is front‑wheel drive and uses constant velocity (CV) joints on its front half‑shafts, not prop‑shaft U‑joints. There’s no rear differential or tailshaft on these models, so there’s nowhere for the classic cross‑type U‑joint to live. This position is based on factory service information and parts catalogues that show front driveshafts with inboard tripod CV joints and outboard Rzeppa CV joints, plus no listing for a rear propeller shaft on FWD trims.

Why no universal joints? U‑joints don’t transmit true constant velocity at steering or suspension angles, they introduce speed fluctuation that can cause vibration and shudder. A FWD car like the Accord needs large steering angles and smooth torque delivery to the front wheels. Rzeppa‑type CV joints comfortably handle greater articulation while keeping shaft speed constant, which keeps the Accord quiet and refined under acceleration and full lock. That’s exactly why modern FWD platforms adopt CV joints over U‑joints.

A small caveat: the steering intermediate shaft on a 2015 Accord does use compact steering column U‑joints. They’re a different application to a driveline U‑joint and are serviced as part of the steering shaft assembly, not the axles.

What owners should look after instead are the CV joints and boots. During routine servicing (every 10,000–15,000 kilometres is a good cadence), inspect the rubber boots for splits, weeping grease, or clamps that have loosened. Tell‑tale signs of CV wear include clicking on full‑lock turns, vibration under acceleration, or grease flung inside the wheel. Catching a torn boot early often means a simple boot and grease replacement, leaving it until grit gets in usually means a whole driveshaft assembly. When replacing, use the correct spec CV grease and new clamps, and torque the axle nut to the factory value to protect wheel bearings. If you’re chasing play or notchiness in the steering rather than driveline noise, then the steering column U‑joints and intermediate shaft are the right area to check.

• Technical references consulted:
  • Honda Accord 2013–2017 Factory Service Manual — Front driveshaft/CV joint section
  • Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) — 2015 Accord FWD: front axle assemblies list CV joints, no propeller shaft or driveline U‑joints
  • Automotive engineering texts on FWD drivelines noting the use of Rzeppa/tripod CV joints for constant velocity at high articulation angles

Does a 2015 Honda Accord have universal joints in the drivetrain?

No. The 2015 Accord is FWD and uses CV joints on its front half‑shafts. There’s no rear tailshaft, so there are no driveline U‑joints. Only the steering intermediate shaft uses small U‑joints, which are a different component.

What should be serviced instead of universal joints on a 2015 Accord?

Focus on CV boots and joints. Check for split boots, thrown grease, clicking on turns, and acceleration vibration. Inspect at regular services and replace boots early to avoid needing a full driveshaft. Also keep an eye on axle seals and wheel bearings while you’re there.

How can someone tell if the steering column U‑joint is worn?

Symptoms include notchy or stiff steering, a dead spot on centre, or play when rocking the wheel with the engine running. Corrosion on the intermediate shaft can also bind the joint. If those signs appear, have the steering shaft assembly inspected and replaced if necessary.