Parts for your 2017 Toyota Camry-Universal joints

2017 Toyota Camry universal joints — are they actually used?

Short answer: for the driveline, no. Technical sources including Toyota’s service information for the XV50 Camry (Repair Manual and New Car Features) and standard driveline references such as the SAE Automotive Handbook describe the 2017 Camry as a front‑wheel‑drive car with transverse engine and front half‑shafts that use constant‑velocity (CV) joints, not propeller‑shaft universal joints (U‑joints). Because there’s no rear differential or tailshaft, the typical cross‑type U‑joint you’d find on a rear‑wheel‑drive ute or 4x4 isn’t fitted.

It’s worth noting there is a small universal joint in the steering intermediate shaft, but that’s part of the steering column assembly, not the driveline. When people search for 2017‑Toyota‑Camry universal‑joints, they usually mean driveline joints — and those are CV joints on this model.

• Front half‑shafts: outer Rzeppa‑type CV joint and inner tripod CV joint for smooth power delivery at steering angles.
• No propeller shaft: FWD layout eliminates the need for driveshaft U‑joints.
• Design rationale: CV joints maintain constant rotational speed through angles, Hooke‑type U‑joints don’t, which would cause vibration on a FWD front axle under steering lock.

Why universal joints aren’t used on this Camry comes down to physics and packaging. A U‑joint changes output speed as it articulates, which is fine on a long, nearly straight prop shaft but not when the joint must work at big angles while steering. CV joints avoid that speed fluctuation, so Toyota specifies CVs for the Camry’s front axles in its factory documentation.

What to service instead of universal joints? Focus on the CV gear. During regular servicing, inspect CV boots for cracks, splits or grease flung around the inner guards. Listen for clicking on tight turns (outer CV wear) or shudder under acceleration (often inner CV play). If a boot is torn, replacing the boot early can save the joint, if the joint’s noisy, a complete axle shaft assembly is the common fix. Also check the steering intermediate shaft for any notchiness or free play, especially if the car has seen coastal conditions — that small U‑joint can bind as it corrodes. Most workshops in Australia and New Zealand will check these items at routine intervals (every service or around 10,000–15,000 km).

Popular questions about 2017 Toyota Camry universal joints

Does a 2017 Toyota Camry have universal joints?
No for the driveline. The 2017 Camry uses CV joints on the front axles. A small U‑joint does exist in the steering intermediate shaft, but it isn’t the driveline component people usually mean by “universal joint”.

What should be serviced instead of universal joints on a 2017 Camry?
Have the CV boots and axles checked for splits, grease leaks, clicking on turns, and vibration under load. Also have the steering intermediate shaft checked for binding or play. Address torn boots promptly to avoid costly axle replacement.

Can universal joints be fitted to the Camry’s driveline?
Not practically. The FWD layout needs CV joints to transmit torque smoothly at large steering angles. Swapping to U‑joints would introduce vibration and drivability issues and isn’t supported by Toyota service guidance.