Parts for your 2016 Holden Colorado-Universal joints

2016 Holden Colorado universal-joints

Universal-joints are fitted to the 2016 Holden Colorado. GM Holden’s RG Colorado service information for the propeller shaft describes cardan (cross-and-bearing) universal joints at the shaft ends, and some variants use a two‑piece shaft with a centre support bearing and an extra uni. This is also reflected in Australian driveline catalogues from Hardy Spicer/Spicer and in ACDelco parts catalogues that list replacement universal-joints for 2012–2016 Colorado models. So, universal-joints are absolutely relevant on this ute.

On a Colorado, the rear propeller shaft uses universal-joints to transmit torque while allowing the shaft to run at changing angles as the rear axle moves. That little cross with needle bearings keeps everything smooth between the gearbox/transfer case and the diff, even when the tray’s loaded or the suspension is working hard off-road. Many RGs run sealed, non-greasable unis from factory, some aftermarket replacements are greasable.

Servicing is simple but important. At each service (or every 20,000 km), check for reddish “rust dust” around the bearing caps, any looseness, stiff movement, or caps that have walked in the yoke. Listen for a chirp at parking-lot speeds, a clunk on take-up, or a vibration under load at highway speeds—classic uni-joint tells. If a joint is sealed and feels notchy or shows play, it’s replacement time. Greasable joints should be lubed with a quality NLGI #2 lithium complex EP grease at each service—more often if the ute tows, does water crossings, or sees mud, give them a hit immediately after river work to push out moisture.

When replacing, mark the shaft orientation to maintain phasing, support the shaft so the caps don’t drop and spill needles, and always fit new clips. Torque the flange/strap bolts to the workshop spec (don’t just “do them up tight”), then road test for smoothness. If there’s still a buzz, have the shaft checked for balance and yoke wear. Quality replacement parts from reputable driveline brands sized to the correct series for the RG platform will keep the Colorado happy for the long haul.

• Inspect unis every service, sooner if there’s vibration, clunks, or squeaks.
• Grease serviceable joints regularly, sealed joints are replace-only.
• After off‑road or water use, clean and re‑lube greasable unis promptly.

Popular questions

How can someone tell if the Colorado’s universal-joints are failing?
Typical signs include a chirp or squeak at low speeds that changes with vehicle movement, a clunk when shifting from drive to reverse, and a vibration under throttle that eases when coasting. Visual clues are rust-coloured dust around bearing caps, migrated caps, or noticeable play when twisting the shaft by hand with the vehicle safely raised.

Are the factory universal-joints greasable on a 2016 Colorado?
Most factory-fitted RG Colorado unis are sealed and non-greasable, designed to run for a long service life without maintenance. If a sealed joint gets rough or loose, it’s replaced rather than serviced. Many aftermarket replacements are greasable, which suits utes that tow, go off-road, or see frequent water crossings.

Do both 2WD and 4WD 2016 Colorados use universal-joints?
Yes. Both use universal-joints on the rear propeller shaft. Some 4x4 variants may also use a front prop shaft with unis. The front axle half-shafts on IFS models use CV joints, but that’s separate from the propeller shaft. Always match parts to VIN and driveline layout.