Parts for your 2017 Ford Focus-Universal joints

2017 Ford Focus universal joints — are they fitted and what to service instead

Universal joints (U‑joints) are not used in the drivetrain of the 2017 Ford Focus. According to the Ford Workshop Manual (WSM) for the C346 platform (2017 Focus), sections covering Front Drive Halfshafts specify constant velocity (CV) joints at both ends of each front axle, not cross‑type U‑joints. The Ford parts catalogue (Microcat/ETIS) likewise lists complete halfshaft assemblies with inner tripod and outer Rzeppa CV joints, and no propeller shaft U‑joints for the front‑wheel‑drive models. Even on the Focus RS (AWD), the propeller shaft uses CV/flex couplings rather than serviceable U‑joints.

U‑joints aren’t used here because a front‑wheel‑drive car needs smooth, constant rotational speed through large steering and suspension angles. Traditional U‑joints introduce speed fluctuation at an angle, which leads to vibration and noise. CV joints maintain constant velocity, handle bigger articulation angles, and package neatly with MacPherson struts—ideal for the Focus.

There is a small universal joint on the steering intermediate shaft, but that’s part of the steering column, not the driveline. It isn’t a routine service item and is typically replaced as an assembly only if play or binding is found.

• What to service instead: Inspect CV boots at each service or around every 10,000–15,000 km. Look for splits, grease fling inside the wheel, or dampness at the boot clamps.
• Common symptoms of CV wear: clicking or popping on full lock, vibration under load, or a rhythmic shudder on acceleration. Any of these deserve prompt inspection to avoid axle damage.
• Steering intermediate shaft check: if there’s notchy steering, stiffness around centre, or a metallic clunk over bumps, a technician should check the lower column joint for corrosion or play. It’s generally replaced, not lubricated.
• Focus RS note: the AWD model uses CV‑type joints and a rubber flex disc on the prop shaft, no greaseable U‑joints are fitted.

For owners in Australia and New Zealand, including coastal regions where corrosion can accelerate wear, it’s smart to have CV boots and steering linkages looked over at each service, WOF, or rego inspection. Keeping on top of small issues early helps the Focus stay quiet, smooth, and compliant on local roads.

FAQs

Does a 2017 Ford Focus have universal joints?
No driveline U‑joints are fitted on front‑wheel‑drive models, they use CV joints on the halfshafts. The Focus RS (AWD) also employs CV/flex couplings on the prop shaft rather than serviceable U‑joints. A small universal joint exists in the steering intermediate shaft, which is separate from the drivetrain.

What should be checked instead of U‑joints on a Focus?
The critical items are the CV boots and joints. Split boots, grease spray on the inside of the rims, clicking on full lock, or vibration under acceleration point to CV issues. During routine servicing, technicians should also assess engine mounts, wheel bearings, and the steering intermediate shaft for any play or binding.

Can the Focus’s steering universal joint be maintained or lubricated?
The steering intermediate shaft joint is generally non‑serviceable. If corrosion, stiffness, or play is present, the recommended fix is replacement of the intermediate shaft assembly and correct torqueing of the fasteners. It’s not designed for periodic greasing and typically isn’t part of scheduled maintenance.