Parts for your 2016 Toyota Crown-Universal joints

2016 Toyota Crown universal joints (U-joints) — purpose, care, and when to replace

Based on technical documentation for the S210-series Toyota Crown (model years 2013–2018), the 2016 Toyota Crown uses a two-piece propeller shaft fitted with cross-type universal joints at the front and rear yokes, plus a centre support bearing. This layout is shown in the Toyota Repair Manual (Drivetrain/Axle > Propeller Shaft) and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue for the Crown S210, which lists the “joint assy, universal” as part of the driveline. So yes — universal joints are relevant and fitted to the 2016 Toyota Crown.

On this model, the universal joints let the prop shaft transfer engine torque to the rear differential while the angles between the gearbox, shaft, and diff change with load and suspension movement. They help keep things smooth and quiet, and when they’re healthy, the driver won’t notice them at all.

Most Crowns of this era run sealed, non‑greaseable U-joints. There’s no set replacement interval, but regular inspection during routine servicing is smart. Technicians typically check for: play in the joint by rocking the shaft, dry or rusty bearing caps, red/brown dust around the caps, and any roughness when the joint is articulated by hand. Road-test symptoms that point to worn U-joints include a clunk on take-off or selecting drive, a vibration that changes with speed or throttle, and a chirp or squeak at low speeds.

When replacement’s needed, owners have two common paths: replace the complete propeller shaft assembly (Toyota often supplies it as an assembly when the joints are staked), or have a driveline specialist rebuild the shaft with quality press-in U-joints and then balance it. Either way, correct phasing and balance are crucial to avoid driveline shudder. A few practical tips:

• Mark the flanges and yokes before removal to preserve orientation.
• Follow workshop-manual torque specs for flange bolts and bearing cap retainers.
• Inspect the centre support bearing and its rubber mount while the shaft is out, replace if noisy or cracked.
• After refit, road test through the speed range and recheck fasteners after the first few hundred kilometres.

There’s usually no need for routine greasing on sealed joints, but a quick look at every service interval (or at least every 10,000–15,000 km) helps catch wear early, which saves tyres, diffs, and gearboxes from unnecessary stress.

Popular questions

How can someone tell if the Crown’s U-joints are worn?

Common signs are a clunk when shifting from reverse to drive or when taking off, a speed-related vibration that worsens under load, and squeaking at low speeds. Underneath, look for rust-coloured dust near the bearing caps, or feel for looseness when the shaft is rocked by hand with the vehicle safely supported.

Are the 2016 Toyota Crown U-joints greaseable?

Most are sealed, non-greaseable units from factory. That’s low-maintenance, but once wear sets in, they’re replaced rather than serviced. If a driveline specialist rebuilds the shaft, they may fit greaseable aftermarket joints, in that case, a light grease at service intervals is recommended.

Does replacing U-joints require a wheel alignment?

No. U-joint or prop shaft work doesn’t affect wheel alignment angles. The key is correct shaft phasing, flange bolt torque, and balance. After replacement, a road test to check for vibration is essential, and fasteners should be rechecked after some kilometres.