Parts for your 2018 Honda Accord-Universal joints

2018 Honda Accord universal-joints — are they used?

For a 2018 Honda Accord, universal-joints (propshaft U-joints) aren’t used in the driveline. This generation Accord is front‑wheel drive, so it doesn’t have a rear propshaft that would normally rely on U‑joints. Instead, the Accord’s front driveshafts use constant velocity (CV) joints at both ends.

Technical sources back this up. The Honda service information for the 2018 Accord describes the “Front Driveshaft” assembly with Rzeppa‑type outboard CV joints and tripod‑type inboard CV joints, including boot and grease specifications, removal and installation steps, and no mention of driveline U‑joints. The 2018 Accord specifications and sales literature list it as front‑wheel drive only, meaning there’s no rear differential or propeller shaft that would require U‑joints. There is a small steering intermediate shaft universal joint in the column assembly on most variants, but it’s part of the steering shaft assembly and not typically sold or serviced as a standalone “universal-joint” for this model.

Why universal-joints aren’t used on the 2018 Accord’s driveline:

• Front‑wheel drive layout eliminates the need for a rear propshaft, where U‑joints are commonly fitted on rear‑wheel drive and 4WD vehicles.
• CV joints are preferred at the front because they transmit power smoothly at higher steering angles and suspension travel, which U‑joints can’t do without vibration.
• Honda’s workshop procedures for the 2018 Accord focus on CV joints, boots, and axle shafts—there’s no driveline U‑joint service procedure or part listing for this model.

What owners should service instead: keep an eye on the CV joint boots for splits or grease fling around the inside of the wheel or under‑tray. Clicking on turns, shudder on acceleration, or grease leakage are typical CV joint/boot symptoms. If a steering feel issue appears (stiffness, notchiness, or clunks over bumps), the steering intermediate shaft—whose joints are part of the assembly—may need inspection or replacement as a unit. Routine checks during scheduled servicing help catch these issues early and save a packet over waiting until a joint fails.

Popular questions about 2018 Honda Accord universal-joints

Does a 2018 Accord have universal-joints in the driveline?
Not in the driveline. The 2018 Accord uses CV joints on the front axles. There’s no rear propshaft or rear diff, so no traditional U‑joints. A small steering intermediate shaft joint exists but it’s part of the steering shaft assembly, not a separate service item.

What should be maintained instead of universal-joints on a 2018 Accord?
Inspect CV joint boots for cracks, tears, or grease leaks, especially after impacts or high‑kilometre motorway runs. Replace damaged boots promptly to protect the CV joints. Listen for clicking on full lock and vibration on acceleration—both point to worn CV joints.

Can the steering universal joint be replaced by itself?
On most 2018 Accord variants, the steering universal joint is integral to the intermediate shaft. If it’s worn or corroded, the standard repair is to replace the shaft assembly. Mechanics will also check column alignment and re‑centre the steering angle as part of the job.