Parts for your 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer-Universal joints

2016 Mitsubishi Lancer universal joints – are they there and what to do about them

Short answer: it depends on the drivetrain. On front‑wheel‑drive 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer models, universal joints aren’t used. The front half‑shafts use constant‑velocity (CV) joints at both ends and there’s no propeller shaft, so a U‑joint simply isn’t part of the layout. This is documented in the Mitsubishi Motors Service Manual for the Lancer (Front Axle/Driveshaft sections) and reflected in the Mitsubishi ASA/CAPS parts catalogue, which lists CV‑jointed front axles only for FWD trims. Haynes’ Mitsubishi Lancer 2007–2017 manual notes the same.

On the All‑Wheel Control (AWC) variants, however, there is a propeller shaft running to the rear differential. Mitsubishi service literature and parts diagrams for AWC show a two‑piece propeller shaft with a centre support bearing and universal‑jointed yokes at the flanges. So if the 2016 Lancer in question is AWC, universal joints are fitted and relevant to servicing.

For AWC cars, universal joints do an unglamorous but critical job—letting the prop shaft transmit engine torque to the rear diff while accommodating changes in angle as the body and driveline move. They help keep the car smooth on the open road and composed over bumps. When they wear, you’ll often feel a vibration through the seat or floor at highway speeds, a clunk on take‑off, or a shudder under load.

There’s no fixed replacement interval for U‑joints on a Lancer AWC. A good rule of thumb is to have them checked at each service or at least every 20,000–30,000 kilometres. A quick inspection includes looking for dried or split bearing cap seals, rust bleed around the caps, missing circlips, or any free play when the shaft is twisted by hand with the car safely lifted. Many Mitsubishi prop shafts use sealed (staked) U‑joints, so there’s no greasing point, once wear sets in, the usual remedy is replacing the propeller shaft assembly or having a driveline specialist rebuild it and re‑balance it.

If replacement’s needed, mark the flange positions before removal to help preserve balance, support the centre bearing so the shaft doesn’t droop, and torque the flange bolts to workshop‑manual specs on re‑fit. Afterward, a road test for vibrations and a check for driveline oil leaks is smart. Keep an ear out for any new noises in the first few drives. Leaving a failing U‑joint to “see how it goes” can escalate to damaged flanges, centre bearings, or even the diff—so if there’s persistent vibration above 70–90 km/h or a pronounced clunk, it’s worth sorting promptly.

Sources consulted: Mitsubishi Motors 2016 Lancer Service Manual (Driveline/Axle and Propeller Shaft sections), Mitsubishi ASA/CAPS electronic parts catalogue for 2016 Lancer, and Haynes Repair Manual for Mitsubishi Lancer 2007–2017.

Does my 2016 Lancer have universal joints?

If it’s front‑wheel drive, no—only CV joints at the front axles. If it’s an AWC (all‑wheel control) model with a rear differential and prop shaft, yes—it has universal joints on the propeller shaft. An easy check is to look under the car: no rear diff means no U‑joints.

How long do Lancer AWC universal joints last?

There’s no set life. With normal road use they can last well past 150,000 km, but age, contamination and hard launches can shorten that. Watch for vibrations at speed, clunks on take‑off, and rust marks at the bearing caps—any of these warrants an inspection.

Can the U‑joints be greased or do they need the whole shaft replaced?

Most factory Lancer prop shafts use sealed, non‑greasable U‑joints. That means no periodic greasing. When play develops, the usual fix is a new prop shaft assembly or a professional rebuild with new joints and dynamic balancing.