Parts for your 2017 Holden Commodore-Universal joints

2017 Holden Commodore universal joints — are they actually used?

Short answer: not on the tailshaft. Technical references including the Holden VF Service Manual (Driveline/Propeller Shaft), GM Service Information for the 2017 Chevrolet SS (the VF export twin), and common parts catalogues from Hardy Spicer and Repco all describe a two‑piece propeller shaft using constant‑velocity (CV) joint and rubber flexible couplings (often called guibos) with a centre support bearing. There are no serviceable cardan‑type universal joints in the VF/VF II Commodore tailshaft assembly.

That choice is deliberate. With independent rear suspension and a focus on NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) refinement, CV joints and rubber couplings deliver smoother torque transfer and better isolation than traditional U‑joints. The flexible couplings also help absorb driveline lash and minimise clunks during take‑off and gear changes. Packaging is tidier too, which suits the Zeta platform under the VF.

It’s worth noting the steering intermediate shaft does use a small universal joint, but that’s separate from the driveline. When owners ask about “universal joints” on a 2017 Commodore, they’re usually thinking of the tailshaft, on this model, they’re simply not fitted.

For servicing, attention shifts to the components Holden did specify:

• Front and rear rubber tailshaft couplings (guibos): look for perishing, cracking, or distortion, replace if there’s driveline shudder under load or a thud on take‑off.
• Centre support bearing: check for play, roughness or torn support rubber, a failing bearing often causes vibration at motorway speeds.
• Fasteners and alignment: mark the tailshaft orientation before removal, use new coupling bolts/nuts where specified, and torque to spec to keep balance and NVH in check.
• Transmission and diff mounts: worn mounts can mimic tailshaft issues, inspect them during any driveline work.

Owners chasing a tight, quiet driveline will get more benefit from timely replacement of couplings and the centre bearing than from searching for non‑existent U‑joints. Quality OE‑equivalent couplings and a correctly installed centre bearing usually restore smoothness and confidence, especially on higher‑kilometre VF II cars.

Popular questions about 2017 Holden Commodore universal joints

Does a 2017 Holden Commodore have universal joints in the tailshaft?
No. The VF/VF II uses a two‑piece tailshaft with a CV joint and rubber flexible couplings (guibos) plus a centre support bearing. This setup is documented in Holden’s VF Service Manual and GM SI for the Chevrolet SS. Traditional serviceable cardan U‑joints aren’t part of the tailshaft design.

What should be serviced instead of universal joints on a 2017 VF?
Focus on the front and rear tailshaft couplings and the centre support bearing. Replace couplings if the rubber is cracked or deformed, and renew the centre bearing if there’s vibration or play. Check transmission and differential mounts at the same time, as worn mounts can create similar symptoms.

Can the tailshaft couplings and centre bearing be replaced at home?
Competent DIYers can tackle it with stands, marking paint, a torque wrench and care to maintain shaft orientation. The centre bearing often requires pressing the bearing off/on and re‑balancing checks, many owners prefer a driveline specialist for that step to avoid introducing vibration.