Parts for your 2018 Toyota Avensis-Universal joints

Are universal joints used on the 2018 Toyota Avensis?

Short answer: not in the driveline. The 2018 Toyota Avensis (T27 series) is built as a front‑wheel‑drive platform, and Toyota’s factory service information and parts listings for this model show front drive shafts with inboard and outboard constant‑velocity (CV) joints, not prop shafts with universal joints. Universal joints (U‑joints) are typically used on rear‑wheel drive or all‑wheel drive vehicles with a longitudinal propeller shaft. On the Avensis, a U‑joint only appears in the steering intermediate shaft, not in the power delivery to the wheels.

Why no universal joints in the driveline? It comes down to how a FWD car like the Avensis is engineered. CV joints are the correct tool for the job on front axles, especially where the wheels both steer and drive. They transmit power smoothly even at large angles without the speed fluctuation a single U‑joint introduces.

• CV joints maintain constant rotational velocity through a range of angles, which keeps things smooth at the steering lock and under suspension movement.
• They handle higher articulation angles than typical U‑joints, essential for front hubs that both turn and move up and down.
• They help reduce vibration and noise (NVH), improving cabin refinement—very on‑brand for an Avensis.
• Packaging is more compact for transverse FWD layouts, keeping weight and complexity down.

What should Avensis owners pay attention to instead? The CV joints and their rubber boots. Split boots let grease out and water in, which quickly wears a joint. A rhythmic clicking on full lock during take‑off is the classic sign of an outer CV joint on the way out. During routine servicing, it’s sensible to:

• Inspect CV boots for cracks, splits, or grease fling around the inner wheel or subframe.
• Check for play or clunks in the drive shafts when shifting from drive to over‑run.
• Use quality replacement boots and grease if a boot is compromised, replace the joint or shaft if noisy or rough.

As for the steering column, the intermediate shaft’s small U‑joints can develop stiffness with age or corrosion. If the steering feels notchy or doesn’t self‑centre well, a closer look at the intermediate shaft and lower joint is worthwhile. Replace rather than lubricate if binding is present, and always realign the steering wheel and perform a basic steering angle sensor reset after work.

FAQs

Does a 2018 Toyota Avensis have universal joints in the drivetrain?

No. The Avensis is FWD and uses CV joints on the front drive shafts. A universal joint may be present on the steering intermediate shaft, but there’s no prop shaft U‑joint in the driveline.

What should be serviced instead of universal joints on a 2018 Avensis?

Keep an eye on CV joint boots and listen for clicking on full lock. During services, inspect the boots for splits and the joints for play. Also check the steering intermediate shaft for any binding or notchiness.

How do I know if a CV joint or the steering U‑joint needs replacing?

Outer CV joints usually click on acceleration with the wheel turned, inner joints tend to cause vibration under load. A failing steering U‑joint makes the steering feel stiff, notchy, or slow to self‑centre. Any of these symptoms warrant prompt inspection and likely replacement.