Parts for your 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer-Universal joints

Universal Joints and Their Role in the 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer

When it comes to the 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer, the topic of universal joints might raise some questions. Do these joints form part of the drivetrain? Are they a crucial component for this vehicle? After reviewing technical details and mechanical layouts, it turns out that the 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer does not use universal joints in the traditional sense you might expect from rear-wheel-drive or older vehicles.

Universal joints, or U-joints as they are often called, are mechanical components designed to transmit rotational power between shafts that are not perfectly aligned. This feature helps accommodate variations in angles and allows smooth power delivery through the drivetrain. Traditionally, they are standard in rear-wheel-drive cars, especially in the driveshaft connecting the transmission to the differential. They help manage suspension movement and changes in drivetrain geometry while maintaining power transfer.

However, the 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer primarily uses a front-wheel-drive setup. In front-wheel-drive systems, the necessity for universal joints is replaced by Constant Velocity (CV) joints. CV joints are much better suited to handle the tight turning angles and suspension movement experienced at the front wheels that handle a majority of the driving forces. CV joints provide constant rotational speed regardless of the angle, which maintains smooth power delivery during steering and suspension travel.

The 2017 Lancer, depending on the specific model and market, may also come with an all-wheel-drive system, but even then, the design shifts towards using CV joints rather than universal joints. This is because CV joints perform better with independent suspension setups and front or all-wheel-drive configurations.

Now, why exactly are universal joints not employed in the 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer? Primarily, it comes down to drivetrain layout and efficiency. The front-wheel-drive configuration means the engine, transmission and driven wheels are all located at the front end of the car. This setup eliminates the need for a long driveshaft running to the rear wheels, the very location where universal joints would typically be found.

Moreover, the technology behind CV joints is more suited for the higher angles and tighter spaces that front-wheel-drive vehicles necessitate. Universal joints, while robust and effective in managing angular changes in shafts, are less efficient at keeping rotation speeds constant when the angles increase. This can lead to vibrations and wear issues over time, something manufacturers aim to minimise for a smooth and reliable driving experience.

In short, the specific engineering and design focus of the 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer's drivetrain architecture means universal joints are not part of the setup. Instead, CV joints are installed, delivering the necessary flexibility and durability required for this modern hatchback or sedan.

For owners interested in maintenance and servicing, this means checking the condition of CV joints rather than universal joints. CV joints are housed within the drive axles and protected by rubber boots packed with grease. These boots prevent dirt, water and contaminants from damaging the joint. If a boot cracks or gets damaged, it can lead to joint failure. Common signs include clicking noises when turning, grease splattered inside the wheel arch or vibrations during acceleration.

Proper maintenance advice for 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer owners centres around regularly inspecting those CV boots during servicing intervals. If you're getting tyres rotated or brakes checked, it's a good time for your mechanic to take a look at the boots for tears or leaks. Broken boots should be replaced immediately to prevent joint damage. As the car accumulates kilometres, the CV joints themselves might require replacement, but this is generally after extensive use or if contamination has caused premature wear.

While universal joints might be a thing of the past on this particular vehicle, the lesson remains relevant: drivetrain components that manage power transmission and accommodate suspension or steering movement require regular attention. The good news for Lancer owners is that CV joints tend to have a long lifespan when boots are intact and no agitation disturbs the grease inside.

To keep the 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer running smoothly and reliably, regular servicing that includes checking driveline components is key. If you hear unusual noises from the front wheels or feel any vibrations, it makes sense to see a qualified technician who can inspect the CV joints and boots. Neglecting these parts can lead to more costly repairs down the track, as replacing a full driveshaft or CV joint is more expensive than a simple rubber boot.

So, although universal joints do not form part of the 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer's drivetrain, understanding how power gets to the wheels and keeping all related components in good shape will help ensure a trouble-free driving experience for the life of the car.