Parts for your 2017 Nissan Pulsar-Driveshafts

2017 Nissan Pulsar driveshafts

Driveshafts are absolutely used on the 2017 Nissan Pulsar. The Australian/NZ Pulsar (C12 hatch and B17 sedan) is front‑wheel drive, and the factory documentation specifies a left and right front driveshaft (CV axle) assembly. This is detailed in the Nissan Pulsar C12/B17 Factory Service Manual under the Front Axle/Driveshaft sections and reflected in the Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue (FAST) listings for “Shaft Assy – Front Drive, LH/RH”. Those technical sources confirm there’s no rear propeller shaft, power is sent to the front wheels via the two CV axle shafts.

On a 2017 Pulsar, the driveshafts take engine torque from the transaxle and feed it to the front wheels while allowing for suspension movement and steering angle. Each shaft uses constant velocity (CV) joints and rubber boots packed with grease to keep things smooth and quiet. When they’re healthy, the car drives straight, accelerates cleanly, and stays vibration‑free. When they’re crook, you’ll hear clicking on full lock, feel shudder under load, or spot grease flung around the inner guards from a split boot.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect both CV boots every 10,000–15,000 km or at each service. Look for cracks, splits, or grease weep, and check the boot clamps are tight. Catching a torn boot early and replacing it can save the joint from wearing out. Also listen for any rhythmic clicking on tight turns and any vibration on acceleration that eases off when you lift – both are classic signs a CV joint is on the way out.

If a driveshaft needs replacing, a competent mechanic will usually: remove the staked hub nut, separate the lower ball joint or strut-to-knuckle as needed, slide the outer spline from the hub, carefully pop the inner spline from the transaxle without gouging the seal, and refit with a new circlip, new hub nut, and fresh transmission fluid if any is lost. It’s good practice to replace single‑use fasteners, keep the splines and seals clean, and avoid letting the hub hang off the brake hose. After refit, torque everything to spec, road‑test for noises or vibration, and check there’s no grease sling or fluid seep.

There’s no fixed replacement interval for Pulsar driveshafts, with intact boots they can last well past 150,000 km. Driving style, road grime, and heat all play a part. If in doubt, have a technician spin the wheels on a hoist, check for play in the joints, and verify the shafts run true under light load.

• Common symptoms: clicking on full lock, shudder on throttle, grease spray near the wheel or subframe.
• Service tips: inspect boots at every service, replace torn boots promptly, use quality grease/boot kits, renew the hub nut and any cotter pins.

Popular questions about 2017 Nissan Pulsar driveshafts

Does the 2017 Pulsar have rear driveshafts?
No. The 2017 Pulsar is front‑wheel drive. It has two front driveshafts (CV axles) and a rear torsion‑beam setup with no prop shaft to the back. All the drive goes to the front wheels.

How long do Pulsar driveshafts typically last?
With intact boots and normal use, many go well beyond 150,000 km. Harsh roads, torn boots, or aggressive launches can shorten their life. Regular inspections during routine servicing help spot issues early.

What are the warning signs of a failing CV joint on a Pulsar?
The big giveaways are clicking or popping when turning sharply, vibration on acceleration, and grease flung around the inner guard or suspension from a split boot. Any of these warrant a closer look before damage escalates.