Parts for your 2016 Nissan Serena-Universal joints

2016 Nissan Serena universal joints: are they used, and what to know

Technical documentation shows universal joints (U-joints) are not fitted to the front-wheel-drive 2016 Nissan Serena, but they are present on 4WD models. The Nissan Serena C26/C27 Service Manual (Front Axle/Driveshaft and Propeller Shaft sections) details Rzeppa-type constant velocity (CV) joints for the 2WD front driveshafts and no propeller shaft in FF/2WD trims. The Propeller Shaft section for 4WD variants specifies a shaft with cross-type U-joints. Nissan’s FAST electronic parts catalogue backs this up: 2WD listings show CV joints only, while 4WD listings include a prop shaft assembly with U-joints.

If the vehicle is a 2WD Serena, universal joints aren’t used because the front transaxle sends drive directly to the front wheels through CV-jointed half-shafts. CV joints handle constant rotational speed at larger steering and suspension angles, which is ideal for a front-drive people mover. There’s no rear propeller shaft, so no need for U-joints.

Got a 4WD Serena? Then yes, it runs a propeller shaft with U-joints to deliver torque to the rear diff. Here’s the lowdown. A universal joint is a cross-and-bearing coupling that lets the prop shaft transmit power even as the driveline angle changes with body movement. On the Serena 4WD, that means smooth torque transfer to the rear under varying loads and road conditions. When healthy, U-joints keep the ride quiet and vibration-free, when worn, they can cause shudders on take-off, droning at speed, or a clunk when shifting from reverse to drive.

Servicing tips for Serena 4WD U-joints:

• Inspection interval: check each service (or at least every 20,000 km) for play, dry/rusty dust around the caps, split seals, or blueing from heat.
• Listen and feel: a rhythmic vibration that changes with road speed, or a metallic click/clunk on throttle changes, often points to U-joint wear.
• Lubrication: most late-model Nissan prop shafts use sealed, non-greasable joints. If yours has grease nipples, use the specified chassis grease sparingly until fresh grease appears at the seals.
• Replacement: many Serena prop shaft U-joints are staked from factory. If play is found, a complete propeller shaft assembly or professionally serviced shaft is typically recommended. If using serviceable joints, mark flange orientation, keep the yokes in phase, and torque flange bolts to the spec in the Nissan manual.
• After repair: road test for vibration and re-check flange bolt torque after a short run.

For exact procedures and torque values, refer to the Nissan Serena C26/C27 Service Manual (Propeller Shaft and Driveline sections). That ensures the job’s done by the book and keeps the family hauler smooth and quiet on Kiwi and Aussie roads.

Popular questions

Does a 2016 Nissan Serena have universal joints?
Most 2WD Serenas don’t, as they use CV joints on the front driveshafts only. However, 4WD variants do have U-joints on the propeller shaft to the rear differential. Checking the build plate or VIN options will confirm which setup the vehicle has.

How often should Serena 4WD U-joints be inspected or replaced?
Inspect at each routine service or at least every 20,000 km. Replace if there’s any notchiness, free play, rust bleed, split seals, or vibration/clunk symptoms. Many are sealed and staked, so replacement often means a new or reconditioned prop shaft assembly.

What’s the difference between the Serena’s CV joints and U-joints?
CV joints maintain constant rotational speed at larger angles and are used on the front half-shafts (2WD and 4WD). U-joints handle smaller angle changes on the prop shaft in 4WD models, keeping the rear-drive connection smooth under load.