Parts for your 2018 Toyota Vitz|yaris-Universal joints

2018 Toyota Vitz/Yaris and universal joints: what’s actually fitted

Universal joints (cross-type U-joints) aren’t used in the driveline of the 2018 Toyota Vitz/Yaris (XP130 series). Technical references including Toyota’s Repair Manual and Electronic Parts Catalogue for the XP130 show front wheel drive shafts with constant velocity (CV) joints—tripod-type inboard and Rzeppa-type outboard—and no propeller shaft that would require traditional U-joints. This layout is typical for small FWD hatchbacks. Engineering texts such as the Bosch Automotive Handbook and SAE literature also explain why: U-joints create angular velocity fluctuation at larger operating angles, while CV joints transmit drive at a constant speed through the big steering angles a FWD front axle sees. That’s why Toyota specifies CV joints up front on this model.

There is a small universal joint in the steering intermediate shaft on many XP130 variants, but that’s a steering component rather than a driveline “universal joint”. Toyota generally services it as part of the intermediate shaft assembly if there’s play, binding or a clunk.

For owners searching “universal joints” for this car, chances are the actual interest is the front CV joints or complete drive shaft assemblies. Those are the parts that take the load and angle at the wheels on the 2018 Vitz/Yaris. Routine servicing focuses on keeping the CV boots intact and joints lubricated.

• What’s fitted: Front drive shafts with CV joints (inboard tripod, outboard Rzeppa), no prop shaft U-joints.
• Why not U-joints on the driveline: FWD packaging, higher articulation at the wheels, and the need for constant velocity to avoid vibration and shudder.
• Maintenance tip: At each service, inspect CV boots for splits, grease sling, or clamps coming loose. Replace a damaged boot early to save the joint.
• Steering feel issues: A notch, bind or clunk through the wheel can point to wear in the steering intermediate shaft U-joint, typically replaced as an assembly.

FAQs

Does a 2018 Toyota Vitz/Yaris have universal joints in the driveline?
No. The XP130 Vitz/Yaris uses CV joints on the front drive shafts and doesn’t have a rear propeller shaft with U-joints. That’s confirmed by Toyota’s repair manual and EPC for this model.

What joints are on the front axles of a 2018 Vitz/Yaris?
The front axles use an inboard tripod CV joint and an outboard Rzeppa CV joint. This setup handles big steering angles smoothly without the vibration a U-joint would introduce.

Is there any universal joint on this car at all?
Yes—many variants have a small universal joint on the steering intermediate shaft. If there’s play or binding, the usual fix is replacing the intermediate shaft assembly.