Parts for your 2017 Honda Odyssey-Universal joints

2017 Honda Odyssey universal joints — what’s actually fitted

For the 2017 Honda Odyssey, universal joints aren’t part of the driveline. Honda’s factory service information for the 2011–2017 Odyssey platform lists front driveshafts with inboard tripod and outboard Rzeppa constant-velocity (CV) joints, and no propeller shaft assembly, which means there are no serviceable driveline uni joints on this model. This layout is confirmed by Honda’s genuine parts catalogues for the year and model, which show complete front axle/CV assemblies but no universal-joint kits for a rear or centre shaft. From a technical standpoint, references such as the Bosch Automotive Handbook note that front‑wheel‑drive vehicles use CV joints because they transmit torque at larger steering and suspension angles with constant rotational velocity, something a single Cardan (uni) joint can’t do without inducing speed fluctuation.

Why no uni joints on a 2017 Odyssey? It’s a transverse V6, front‑wheel‑drive people mover. There’s no rear differential and no propeller shaft to require universal joints. CV joints handle the big articulation angles of steering while keeping vibration and torque ripple low, improving NVH and durability. While the steering column does use small universal‑style joints, those aren’t part of the driveline and typically aren’t serviced like traditional prop‑shaft uni joints.

• What to service instead: Inspect the CV boots every 10,000–15,000 km or at each service. Look for split rubber, thrown grease, or clicking on turns (classic CV wear signs).
• If a boot is torn, act quickly — once grease is lost and grit gets in, the joint wears fast. A boot kit can sometimes save the joint if caught early, otherwise a complete driveshaft assembly is the common fix.
• After any driveshaft work, ensure axle‑nut torque is set to spec and have a road test done to check for vibration under load.

Bottom line: shoppers looking for “universal joints” for a 2017 Odyssey actually need CV joint/drive shaft parts. The vehicle simply doesn’t use prop‑shaft uni joints by design, as supported by Honda service manuals and parts catalogues, and by standard driveline practice for FWD vehicles described in engineering texts.

FAQs

Does a 2017 Honda Odyssey have universal joints?
No — not in the driveline. The 2017 Odyssey is front‑wheel drive and uses front axle shafts with CV joints, so there’s no rear prop shaft or serviceable uni joints. Honda’s service manual and parts catalogues for this model list CV joints and complete front driveshaft assemblies, but no prop‑shaft uni joints.

What joints does it use instead of universal joints?
It uses constant‑velocity joints: typically an inboard tripod joint and an outboard Rzeppa joint on each front driveshaft. CV joints maintain constant rotational speed at larger angles, which suits the Odyssey’s steering and suspension travel and delivers smoother NVH than a single Cardan (uni) joint.

What should be maintained if there are no driveline uni joints?
Focus on CV boots and shafts. Regularly check boots for cracks, leaks, or grease spray, listen for clicking on full lock, and address any torn boot promptly. If wear is advanced, replacing the complete driveshaft assembly is usually the most reliable repair.