Parts for your 2016 Toyota Crown-Universal joints

2016 Toyota Crown universal joints: what they do and how to look after them

Based on Toyota technical documentation for the S210-series Crown (GRS210/GRS214/AWS210), universal joints are fitted to this vehicle. The Toyota Crown (model year 2016) uses a two-piece propeller shaft with a centre support bearing and cross-type universal joints at the front and rear. This layout is described in the Toyota Crown S210 Repair Manual (Propeller Shaft section), and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalog lists the Spider (universal joint) sub-assembly within the propeller shaft assembly. So yes—universal joints are relevant and used on the 2016 Toyota Crown.

On this rear-drive platform, the universal joints allow the prop shaft to transmit torque from the transmission to the rear differential while managing changes in angle and length as the suspension moves. That flexibility keeps the driveline smooth, reduces vibration, and protects the gearbox and diff from shock loads—handy on Aussie and Kiwi roads where surfaces vary and long kilometres are the norm.

From the factory, many Toyota passenger cars of this era use sealed, non-greasable U-joints. In practice, that means routine maintenance is more about inspection than greasing. During scheduled servicing, it’s smart to check for play, rust-coloured dust at the bearing caps, perished seals, and any vibration or droning on light throttle. A tell-tale squeak at low speed or a clunk when shifting from reverse to drive often points to a worn universal joint or centre bearing.

If replacement is needed, Toyota commonly supplies the complete propeller shaft assembly, as the original U-joints are staked in. Reputable driveline specialists can press in quality serviceable joints if the yokes are suitable, but balancing the shaft afterwards is a must. When the shaft’s out, it’s also worth assessing the centre support bearing and rubber mount—if they’re tired, do the lot in one go and save a second visit.

• Inspection interval: every 20,000–30,000 km or at any sign of vibration, noise, or driveline harshness.
• Replacement tips: mark the flanges for phasing, use new flange bolts, and torque to spec, have the shaft balanced if any component is changed.
• Road test: check for shudder on take-off, highway-speed vibration, and coast-load noises after the work.

Looked after properly, the Crown’s universal joints deliver quiet, fuss-free motoring over big distances, whether it’s city commuting or a long-haul across the Tasman’s open roads.

Popular questions

Does the 2016 Toyota Crown use universal joints or CV joints on the prop shaft?

The S210 Crown uses cross-type universal joints on a two-piece propeller shaft with a centre support bearing. While many modern cars run CV joints, Toyota’s rear-drive Crown retains U-joints for robust torque transfer and durability.

How often should the universal joints be checked on a 2016 Crown?

Have them inspected every 20,000–30,000 km or at any sign of vibration, squeaks at low speed, or a driveline clunk. Because the OEM joints are typically sealed, inspection and timely replacement are the key preventative measures.

Can just the universal joint be replaced, or does the whole shaft need doing?

Toyota often supplies the complete prop shaft because the original joints are staked in. A driveline specialist may be able to fit serviceable joints and then balance the shaft. If the yokes are worn or the centre bearing is tired, replacing the full assembly can be the better long-term fix.