Parts for your 2017 Holden Commodore-Universal joints

Universal Joints on the 2017 Holden Commodore: What You Need to Know

The 2017 Holden Commodore is a popular Australian-made car known for its strong performance and solid build. When it comes to drivetrain components, many people might wonder if universal joints, commonly called U-joints, are part of this vehicle's setup. After checking technical sources and detailed service manuals, it turns out that universal joints are not typically used on the 2017 Holden Commodore, especially on models with the well-known independent rear suspension (IRS) or drivetrains designed by GM Australia during that period.

Why is that the case? Well, universal joints are usually found in vehicles that have a solid rear axle with driveshafts that need to accommodate movement and changes in angle between the transmission and the axle. They allow the driveshaft to spin freely while compensating for suspension movement and differences in alignment between the drive components. On many traditional rear-wheel drive vehicles, U-joints are a staple because they provide the necessary flexibility for the driveshaft to transfer power smoothly.

But the 2017 Holden Commodore uses a different approach. Models equipped with the independent rear suspension use constant velocity (CV) joints instead of universal joints. CV joints perform a similar function in transferring drive power while accommodating suspension movement but they operate more smoothly and effectively at higher angles and speeds. They are well suited for the independent suspension design, which offers better handling and ride comfort. The CV joints provide a more consistent drive feel without the slight vibrations or maintenance concerns associated with universal joints in some setups.

Because the Commodore uses CV joints instead of U-joints, the typical servicing or replacement advice that applies to universal joints is not relevant here. That means if you own a 2017 Holden Commodore, you won't really need to worry about universal joints wearing out or needing maintenance as a part of your normal servicing schedule.

That said, understanding the role and maintenance of universal joints can still be helpful for many drivers, especially if they own or work on other vehicles that do use these parts. U-joints play an important role in many drivetrains, particularly in trucks, older rear-wheel drive cars, and muscle cars where a solid rear axle is common. They allow the driveshaft to flex in response to suspension movement and transmit power from the transmission to the rear axle reliably.

Universal joints have a cross-shaped centre piece with needle bearings inside each arm, allowing the connected shafts to rotate freely and pivot gently. Because they work in a relatively harsh environment, they need regular inspection and sometimes greasing if they come with grease fittings. Worn-out U-joints can cause noticeable symptoms like clunking noises when shifting gears, vibrations at certain speeds, or even catastrophic driveshaft failure if left unchecked.

For vehicles fitted with universal joints, regular maintenance is pretty straightforward. Mechanics typically check for any play in the joints by loosening the driveline components and moving the shaft by hand to see if there is excessive movement. Greasing the joints periodically, depending on vehicle use, also helps extend their life and keeps everything running smoothly. Replacing a universal joint is a common repair that rates as affordable and quick, usually involving removing the driveshaft, pressing out the old joint, and pressing in a new one.

Again, these points about universal joint care don't exactly apply to the 2017 Holden Commodore, which benefits from the more advanced CV joint setup in its drivetrain. This configuration helps provide a quieter, smoother driving experience while requiring less user maintenance compared to traditional U-joint systems.

So, if you're driving a 2017 Holden Commodore, you can rest easy knowing that your vehicle doesn't rely on universal joints in the drivetrain. Instead, your Commodore's design focuses on durability and performance through its independent rear suspension and CV joints. Just remember to keep on top of regular servicing as outlined in your owner's manual, and your Commodore's drivetrain will continue to perform well for years on the road.