Parts for your 2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse cross-Universal joints

2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross – Universal Joints

According to Mitsubishi’s Eclipse Cross workshop manual (Propeller Shaft/All-Wheel Control sections, 2017–2018 MY) and the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue for the AWD variants, the all-wheel-drive Eclipse Cross uses a propeller shaft fitted with cardan-type universal joints. Front-wheel-drive models don’t carry a prop shaft and rely solely on constant-velocity (CV) joints at the front, so U‑joints aren’t present on 2WD versions.

On AWD 2017 Eclipse Cross models, universal joints sit on the propeller shaft to transmit torque from the transaxle to the rear differential at varying angles without binding. In plain speak, they let the shaft flex as the body and driveline move, keeping things smooth when the road gets patchy or when the vehicle squats under load. The Mitsubishi workshop material notes these joints are sealed-for-life on the OE shaft, chosen for low maintenance and good NVH behaviour in a compact SUV package.

Because they’re sealed, there’s no regular greasing. Instead, servicing is about inspection and catching wear early. A tech will typically check for:

• Clunks or a metallic knock on take-off or on/off throttle transitions
• Vibration or a humming/whir under load at certain speeds
• Excess play at the prop shaft yokes when the vehicle is safely raised
• Rust bleed or perished seals around the joint caps

If a U‑joint shows play or roughness, Mitsubishi’s service guidance and parts listings indicate the fix is usually replacement of the complete propeller shaft assembly rather than pressing in a separate joint, as the factory joints are staked and non-greasable. That sounds a bit spendy, but it preserves balance and reliability. Plenty of owners choose to fit quality aftermarket rebuildable shafts with grease nipples if the vehicle sees tougher use, just keep in mind balancing and correct torque specs are critical.

Driving style and conditions matter. Frequent towing, corrugated roads, or lifted suspensions can accelerate wear. During routine servicing (every 10,000–15,000 km typical for AUS/NZ schedules), it’s wise to road test for vibration, then inspect the shaft, centre bearing, and rear diff mount bushings along with the U‑joints. Catching a tired joint before it lets go prevents collateral damage to the tunnel, exhaust, or diff flange.

For 2WD Eclipse Cross owners: your front axles use CV joints, not U‑joints, so the above doesn’t apply—focus instead on CV boot condition and grease integrity.

Popular questions

Does my 2017 Eclipse Cross have universal joints?
AWD models do—there’s a prop shaft running to the rear differential with sealed U‑joints. 2WD models don’t have a prop shaft, so no U‑joints, they use CV joints on the front drive shafts only.

What are the symptoms of a worn U‑joint on an Eclipse Cross?
Common signs include a clunk on take-off, a droning vibration at road speed that changes with throttle, and visible play at the shaft yokes. Any of these warrant a proper inspection before it escalates.

Can the U‑joints be greased or replaced separately?
Factory prop shafts on the Eclipse Cross AWD are typically sealed and non-greasable. Many workshops replace the complete shaft to maintain balance. Some aftermarket options allow separate, greasable joint replacement if you prefer a serviceable setup.