Parts for your 2017 Toyota Wish-Universal joints

2017 Toyota Wish universal joints: what’s fitted and what’s not

Based on Toyota’s technical literature for the ZGE2# series (Toyota Repair Manual/TIS and Toyota Electronic Parts Catalog), the 2017 Toyota Wish uses constant velocity (CV) joints on its front drive shafts. CV joints are specified because they maintain constant rotational speed through the large steering and suspension angles a front-wheel-drive layout demands. Universal joints (Hooke-type U-joints) don’t maintain constant velocity at an angle, which is why they aren’t used on the Wish’s front half-shafts. This is conventional FWD design and aligns with industry references such as the Bosch Automotive Handbook and SAE driveline fundamentals.

However, universal joints are present on two areas, depending on the exact variant: the steering intermediate shaft (all variants typically use small U-joints for column articulation), and the propeller shaft on 4WD models (ZGE25W). The Toyota EPC lists a propeller shaft assembly for ZGE25W that incorporates U-joints and a centre bearing. If the vehicle is a common FWD ZGE20W/ZGE22W, driveline U-joints aren’t a service item, CV joints are. If it’s a ZGE25W 4WD, driveline U-joints are relevant.

Why U-joints aren’t used on FWD Wish drive shafts: CV joints handle big steering angles smoothly and without the speed fluctuation inherent to U-joints, reducing vibration, wear, and torque steer. That’s why Toyota specifies Rzeppa (outer) and tripod/plunging (inner) CV joints on FWD Wish models in the service manual.

For 4WD ZGE25W owners, here’s the lowdown on the universal joints. The prop shaft’s U-joints let the shaft transmit torque between the gearbox and rear differential while the suspension moves. They’re compact, tough, and—when in good nick—quiet and fuss-free. Over time, dust, water, and simple wear can dry out the bearing cups, leading to play and vibration. Typical tells include a shudder on take-off, a droning vibration at motorway speeds, a metallic clunk shifting from Drive to Reverse, or rust-coloured dust around the caps. Left to worsen, a seized or sloppy U-joint can take out the centre bearing or damage the flanges.

Servicing tips during routine maintenance on a 4WD Wish: check for axial and radial play at each yoke with the vehicle safely supported, spin and feel for notchiness, look for slung grease or torn seals. Many Toyota prop shafts of this era use sealed, non-greaseable U-joints, so there are no grease nipples—replacement is the fix if wear is found. Toyota’s Repair Manual specifies alignment marks and flange bolt torque, re-use of hardware and balance are critical, so mark the flanges before removal and refit in the same orientation. If the joints are staked or the shaft is balance-critical, replacing the complete propeller shaft assembly can be the most reliable route. For vehicles doing a lot of kays, towing, or seeing gravel and water crossings, a quick inspection every 20,000–30,000 kilometres is a smart move. Genuine-quality parts and correct torque go a long way to keeping it smooth and drama-free.

• Technical references: Toyota Repair Manual/TIS for ZGE20/22/25 series, Toyota Electronic Parts Catalog (ZGE25W propeller shaft assembly with U-joints), industry texts on driveline design (Bosch Automotive Handbook, SAE driveline fundamentals).

Popular questions about 2017 Toyota Wish universal joints

Does my 2017 Toyota Wish have universal joints?
Most FWD models (ZGE20W/ZGE22W) don’t use U-joints in the front drive shafts—they use CV joints. All variants typically have small U-joints in the steering intermediate shaft. If yours is the 4WD ZGE25W, there are universal joints on the propeller shaft running to the rear diff.

How often should U-joints be checked on a 4WD Wish?
There’s no fixed replacement interval for sealed U-joints, but it’s sensible to inspect them every 20,000–30,000 km or at each major service, especially if the vehicle tows, carries loads, or sees rough roads and water. Look for play, dry or rusty caps, slung grease, and any driveline vibration.

What are the signs a U-joint is failing?
Common symptoms include a clunk when shifting from Drive to Reverse, a vibration that changes with speed, shudder on take-off, or chirping/rumbling sounds. Visible rust dust at the bearing cups or any free play at the yokes are red flags that call for prompt replacement.