Parts for your 2017 Toyota Corolla-Universal joints

2017 Toyota Corolla universal joints — are they used, and what to know

For a 2017 Toyota Corolla, a traditional driveline universal joint (U-joint) isn’t a relevant service item. Technical documentation for the E170-series Corolla, including Toyota’s Repair Manual and New Car Features, specifies a front‑wheel drive layout with a transverse engine and no propeller shaft. The drive axles use constant velocity (CV) joints — tripod type inboard and Rzeppa type outboard — rather than U‑joints. Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue for ZRE172/ZRE182 models lists front drive shafts with CV joints and boots, while a prop shaft and cross‑type U‑joints aren’t listed for 2WD variants. This aligns with common drivetrain practice cited in SAE texts: FWD passenger cars use CV joints because they maintain constant rotational speed through large steering and suspension angles, something a single U‑joint cannot do without speed fluctuation.

So while the term “universal joint” often pops up in parts searches, it doesn’t apply to the Corolla’s driveline. There is, however, a small universal joint on the steering intermediate shaft — that’s part of the steering column assembly, not the transmission or axle system. It isn’t serviced like a driveshaft U‑joint, if it develops play or binding, the usual fix is replacing the intermediate shaft assembly per Toyota’s steering section procedures.

Why the Corolla doesn’t use driveline U‑joints:

• No prop shaft on FWD models — nothing to couple with a U‑joint in the driveline.
• CV joints provide constant velocity at greater angles for smooth power delivery while steering and over bumps.
• Better NVH for a light passenger car, U‑joints can introduce speed pulsation unless used in pairs or special configurations.

For owners planning routine servicing, the focus should be on inspecting the CV joint boots for splits, leaks or thrown grease, and listening for clicking on turns (outer CV) or shudder on take‑off (inner CV). If the steering ever feels notchy or there’s a faint clunk on small inputs, a technician can check the steering intermediate shaft universal joint, but it’s not a regular maintenance item and has no scheduled greasing point on this model.

• Does a 2017 Corolla have universal joints in the driveline?

No. The 2017 Corolla uses CV joints on its front drive shafts and has no propeller shaft, so there are no traditional driveline U‑joints to service. Toyota’s 2017 Corolla Repair Manual details only CV joints for the front axles on 2WD models.

• What’s that universal joint on the steering column — does it need maintenance?

The steering intermediate shaft includes a small universal joint that allows the column to articulate. It isn’t a routine service item and has no grease nipple. If there’s binding, play or a clunk in the steering, workshops typically replace the intermediate shaft assembly following Toyota’s steering procedures.

• I hear clicking when turning — is that a universal joint?

On a Corolla, clicking on full lock is usually an outer CV joint issue, not a U‑joint. Check the outer CV boot for splits or lost grease. Catching a torn boot early can save the joint, if it’s already noisy, the affected shaft or joint will need replacement.