Parts for your 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander-Universal joints

2017 Mitsubishi Outlander universal joints (U-joints) — what’s fitted and how to look after them

On the 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander, universal joints are relevant and used on most petrol and diesel AWD models because they run a front-to-rear propeller shaft. Front‑wheel‑drive variants don’t have a prop shaft, so no U‑joints there. The Outlander PHEV drives the rear wheels via a dedicated electric motor with no mechanical prop shaft, so no U‑joints on that model either. Technical source references: Mitsubishi Motors Service/Workshop Manual (Propeller Shaft section) describing a two‑piece propeller shaft with non‑serviceable U‑joints for AWD, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV New Model Features/Training material noting the absence of a mechanical propeller shaft, Mitsubishi ASA/EPC parts listings showing propeller shaft/yoke assemblies for AWD and none for PHEV.

For AWD petrol and diesel models where U‑joints are fitted, the part’s job is simple but critical: it allows the propeller shaft to transmit torque from the transfer case to the rear differential while the driveline moves with suspension travel. By accommodating angular change between components, U‑joints keep the Outlander smooth on the highway and composed over corrugations on Aussie and Kiwi roads.

Most 2017 Outlander AWD prop shafts use sealed, non‑greaseable U‑joints. That means there’s no regular greasing point, instead, the recommendation is periodic inspection. At each service (or at least every 15,000 km), a technician should check for free play, rust bleed around the bearing caps, and any binding. Typical warning signs owners might notice include a driveline clunk on take‑off or when shifting from reverse to drive, a rhythmic vibration at 60–100 km/h that doesn’t feel like a tyre balance issue, or a chirping/metallic squeak at low speed that changes with vehicle speed.

If a U‑joint is worn, replacement is the fix. On many Outlanders, the factory U‑joints are staked into the yokes, so Mitsubishi specifies replacing the entire propeller shaft assembly rather than pressing in a new joint. Some driveline specialists can rebuild the shaft and fit serviceable circlip‑type U‑joints, but that’s outside standard dealer procedure. When removing the prop shaft, it’s best practice to mark the flange positions so it goes back in phase, support the centre bearing, and torque the flange bolts to workshop‑manual spec to avoid NVH. With normal use, U‑joints can last well over 150,000 km, but frequent towing, beach work, or mud and water crossings can shorten their life—so tighten up the inspection intervals if the Outlander is working hard.

• Key tip: chase vibrations early, a failing U‑joint can take out the centre bearing, flange yokes, or even damage the transfer case or rear diff if left too long.

Popular questions

Does my 2017 Outlander actually have U‑joints?
AWD petrol and diesel models do, because they use a two‑piece propeller shaft. Front‑wheel‑drive versions don’t, and the PHEV doesn’t either as it drives the rear wheels electrically with no prop shaft.

How often should the Outlander’s U‑joints be serviced or replaced?
They’re sealed, so there’s no greasing. Get them inspected at each regular service for play, noise, or rust bleed. Replace the assembly (or have a driveline specialist rebuild it) at the first signs of wear to prevent knock‑on damage.

What happens if I ignore a worn U‑joint?
Vibration and clunking typically worsen and can damage the centre bearing, flanges, transfer case, or rear differential—turning a simple repair into an expensive one.