Parts for your 2016 Ford Focus-Universal joints

2016 Ford Focus universal joints – what they do, and when they need attention

Based on technical references, the 2016 Ford Focus doesn’t use cross-type universal joints in its driveline. The front-wheel-drive models use constant velocity (CV) joints on the halfshafts, and the AWD Focus RS uses CV-type prop shaft joints for NVH and articulation (Ford Workshop Manual 2015–2018: Section 205-00 Driveline/Axle, GKN Driveline literature on CV joints). However, universal joints are fitted in the steering intermediate shaft to transmit steering input at angles between the column and rack (Ford Workshop Manual: Section 211-04 Steering Column/Intermediate Shaft, Haynes Ford Focus 2011–2018).

For the 2016 Focus, the steering intermediate shaft U-joints are the quiet achievers. Their job is to let the column and steering rack sit at slightly different angles without binding, keeping steering feel consistent across bumps and body movement. Because these U-joints are sealed and compact, they aren’t a serviceable item in the classic grease-and-cap sense, if they wear or seize, the fix is replacement of the intermediate shaft assembly as per Ford service information.

Practical servicing advice for owners and workshops in Australia and New Zealand: work these checks into routine services every 20,000 km or so, or any time a driver reports steering issues. Look for rust staining at the joints, feel for notchiness when turning lock-to-lock with the engine off, and listen for a faint clunk through the column over driveway lips. In coastal or high-humidity areas, light corrosion can creep in faster, and stiffness may be worse on cold mornings.

If any of the following show up, plan a replacement rather than a lube attempt (sprays can mask the problem briefly but won’t restore a worn joint):

• Notchy or heavy steering, especially off centre
• Clunks or a “click” felt through the wheel over small bumps
• Steering wheel not returning to centre smoothly
• Visible corrosion or play at the joint yokes

Replacement is straightforward for a qualified tech: battery off (airbag safety), steering locked at centre to protect the clockspring, column and rack pinch bolts removed, shaft swapped, then pinch bolts torqued to spec (single-use bolts where Ford specifies). A road test to confirm smooth return-to-centre is a must. Wheel alignment isn’t normally required for this job, but if the steering wheel ends up off-centre, an alignment or steering angle sensor reset may be needed.

It’s worth noting for parts searches: “universal joints” on a 2016 Focus usually refers to the steering intermediate shaft, not the front axles. Driveline vibration or clicking under power is almost always CV joint related on this model.

Popular questions about 2016 Ford Focus universal joints

Does a 2016 Ford Focus have universal joints?
Yes—on the steering intermediate shaft. The driveline uses CV joints, not cross-type U-joints, even on the RS prop shaft. The steering U-joints let the column and rack operate at angles without binding.

What are the signs a Focus steering U-joint is failing?
Common clues are a notchy or heavy feel just off centre, clunks through the wheel over small bumps, poor return-to-centre, or visible corrosion at the joint. Symptoms can be worse in cold or wet conditions.

Can a stiff steering U-joint be lubricated instead of replaced?
They’re sealed and not designed for lubrication. Sprays might quiet things temporarily but won’t fix wear or internal corrosion. Ford service guidance is to replace the intermediate shaft if a U-joint is binding or loose.