Parts for your 2017 Nissan Navara-Universal joints

2017 Nissan Navara universal joints (U-joints)

Universal joints are relevant and fitted to the 2017 Nissan Navara (D23/NP300). This is confirmed by the Nissan Navara D23 Series Factory Service Manual (Propeller Shaft section), Nissan’s FAST electronic parts catalogue listings for the D23 propeller shaft assemblies, and common aftermarket catalogues that specify direct‑fit replacement U‑joints for 2015–2020 Navara utes. On 4x4 models, U‑joints are used on the propeller shafts, while the front drive axles use constant‑velocity (CV) joints, which is normal for independent front suspension.

On a 2017 Navara, the universal joints sit at each end of the propeller shaft to let the driveline change angle as the suspension moves, all while sending torque from the transmission or transfer case to the differential. They’re small, but they cop a hard life—dust, water, towing, corrugations—so staying on top of them is part of smart servicing for any Aussie or Kiwi ute owner.

What they do and why they matter: U‑joints maintain smooth rotation through changing angles. If they wear out, the tell‑tales are hard to miss: a clunk on take‑off or shifting from reverse to drive, a shudder or vibration around highway speeds, or a chirp/squeak at low speed that changes with vehicle speed. Left too long, a failing U‑joint can let go and damage the shaft, yokes, centre bearing or even the transmission output—costly stuff.

Servicing and replacement tips for a 2017 Navara:

• Inspection: During regular services, check for play at the yokes, dry or rusty bearing cap dust, perished seals, and sling‑out grease. Spin and feel for notchiness with the shaft supported.
• Greasing: If fitted with grease nipples (many OE joints are sealed, many aftermarket ones are greaseable), give them a quality lithium complex or moly grease every service or 10,000–15,000 km, and after water crossings or beach work.
• Replacement: Mark the shaft and yokes to keep phasing, use a press rather than a hammer, and torque the strap/bolt hardware to spec. Consider replacing in pairs and checking the centre bearing and slip joint while you’re there.
• Balance and alignment: If the shaft’s been apart, have it balanced. Incorrect phasing or bent yokes will cause persistent vibrations.

Whether it’s a coil‑rear or leaf‑rear D23, manuals or autos, keeping the Navara’s U‑joints healthy means quieter driveline behaviour, longer diff and gearbox life, and fewer surprises on that next towing run or off‑road trip.

Popular questions about 2017 Nissan Navara universal joints

Do all 2017 Navara models have universal joints?
Yes. The propeller shafts on 2WD and 4WD 2017 Navara D23 models use U‑joints. Front drive axles on 4WDs use CV joints, which is a different design suited to steering angles. So, you’ll likely have U‑joints on the rear prop shaft (and on the front prop shaft in 4WD variants).

How often should the U‑joints be serviced or greased?
If your Navara has greaseable U‑joints, hit them with fresh grease at each service or roughly every 10,000–15,000 km, and after deep water crossings or beach work. If they’re sealed (non‑greaseable), focus on regular inspections for play, noise, or leaking cap seals, and replace at the first sign of wear.

Is it safe to keep driving with a noisy or vibrating U‑joint?
Not recommended. A failing U‑joint can deteriorate quickly, potentially leading to driveshaft separation and collateral damage. If there’s a clunk, squeak, or new vibration that tracks with road speed, park it and have the driveline inspected before the next trip.