Parts for your 2018 Toyota Vitz|yaris-Universal joints

Are universal joints used on a 2018 Toyota Vitz/Yaris?

Short answer: not in the driveline. On the 2018 Toyota Vitz/Yaris (XP130/XP150 series), the front-wheel-drive layout uses constant velocity (CV) joints on the front drive shafts, not traditional prop shaft universal joints (U-joints). Technical references such as the Toyota Yaris/Vitz Repair Manual (Drivetrain/Axle – Front Drive Shaft – Components and Overhaul) and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue list inboard tripod-style and outboard Rzeppa-type CV joints, with no propeller shaft or rear differential on standard models. That makes driveline U-joints irrelevant on this car.

Why’s that the case? CV joints keep the drive speed constant through a range of steering angles and suspension travel, which is exactly what a compact FWD hatch needs for smooth, vibration-free acceleration and tight turning. Traditional cardan-style U-joints don’t maintain constant angular velocity at larger operating angles, which would bring shudder and wear in a front-drive setup. It’s why industry texts and SAE literature on FWD drivelines specify CV joints as the go-to for transversely mounted engines driving the front wheels.

There is a small exception worth noting: like most modern cars, the Vitz/Yaris uses one or more small universal joints in the steering intermediate shaft to link the column to the rack. That’s a steering component, not part of the engine-to-wheel driveline. If that steering U-joint binds or corrodes, the remedy is typically replacing the intermediate shaft assembly rather than servicing a separate joint.

For owners chasing a driveline “universal joint” on a 2018 Vitz/Yaris, the part you’ll actually be after is almost certainly a front CV shaft or boot. If there’s clicking on full lock, grease slung around the inner guard, or vibration on throttle, think CV joint or shaft, not a prop shaft U-joint.

• Driveline joints used: CV joints (inboard tripod, outboard Rzeppa)
• No rear prop shaft or rear diff on standard models, so no driveline U-joints
• Steering column may have a small U-joint, it’s separate from the driveline

Popular questions about 2018 Toyota Vitz/Yaris universal joints

Does a 2018 Toyota Vitz/Yaris have universal joints in the driveline?

No. The driveline uses CV joints on the front drive shafts. The only universal joint you might find is in the steering intermediate shaft, which isn’t part of the engine-to-wheel power transfer.

What should be checked instead of universal joints on a 2018 Vitz/Yaris?

Inspect the front CV shafts, especially the rubber boots. Look for splits, thrown grease, clicking on full lock, or vibration under load. If a boot is torn, replacing the boot early can save the joint, if the joint’s noisy, a complete CV shaft replacement is usually the go.

Could any 2018 Vitz/Yaris variant use a prop shaft with U-joints?

Mainstream 2018 Vitz/Yaris hatchbacks are front-wheel drive and don’t have a propeller shaft. Some markets and generations have offered limited all-wheel-drive variants, but parts listings for 2018 Vitz/Yaris commonly show FWD with CV shafts only. Always confirm by VIN in the Toyota EPC if you suspect a special variant.