Parts for your 2019 Toyota Vitz|yaris-Universal joints

2019 Toyota Vitz/Yaris — Are universal joints used on this model?

On a 2019 Toyota Vitz/Yaris (P13# series), a traditional driveline universal joint isn’t a service item because the car is front‑wheel drive and uses constant velocity (CV) joints in its front drive shafts. Toyota’s own technical literature backs this up: the Toyota Repair Manual for the P13# series (Axle and Front Drive Shaft sections) specifies inboard tripod and outboard Rzeppa CV joints, the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) for 2019 Vitz/Yaris model codes such as NSP130/NCP131/NHP130 lists complete driveshaft assemblies and CV joints/boots, with no propeller shaft or rear U‑joints, and the New Car Features (NCF) documentation describes FWD packaging with CV joints for smooth torque delivery at steering angles.

Why no universal joints? A universal joint changes angular velocity through an angle, which can introduce vibration and shudder—fine for a straight rear prop shaft in a ute, not so great for a small FWD hatch cornering at full lock. CV joints maintain constant rotational speed even when the wheels are turned and the suspension moves, which is exactly what the Vitz/Yaris needs for smoothness, efficiency and packaging. There’s also no rear differential or prop shaft on this model, so there’s nowhere for a traditional driveline U‑joint to live.

What owners typically mean by “universal joints” on this car is either:

• The front CV joints and boots on the drive shafts (these are the wear items to service and replace if torn or noisy).
• The small steering intermediate shaft joint (a type of universal joint) between the column and rack. That part can develop play or stiffness and is serviced separately from the driveline.

For regular servicing, it’s worth asking the workshop to check the CV boots each service interval (or around every 10,000–15,000 km). Split boots fling grease and let water in, which quickly damages the joint and causes clicking on turns. If there’s clunking or notchiness in the steering, have the steering intermediate shaft inspected as well. Genuine or high‑quality aftermarket parts and proper torque specs from Toyota’s repair manual will keep the Vitz/Yaris tight and quiet on the road.

• Does a 2019 Toyota Vitz/Yaris have universal joints in the drivetrain?
  No. It uses CV joints on the front drive shafts. There’s no rear prop shaft or differential on this FWD model, so traditional driveline U‑joints aren’t fitted. If you’re chasing a driveline click on turns, think CV joints and boots first.
• Is there a universal joint in the steering column?
  Yes, the steering intermediate shaft uses a small universal joint. If you notice a clunk over bumps or a stiff, notchy feel when turning the wheel, have that joint checked. Light corrosion or wear can cause play, the usual fix is replacement of the intermediate shaft assembly.
• Can I replace the Vitz/Yaris CV joints with universal joints?
  No. CV joints are required to maintain constant rotational speed through large angles when steering. Swapping to U‑joints would introduce vibration and rapid wear. If a CV joint is noisy or a boot is torn, replace the affected CV joint or complete shaft as per Toyota’s service guidance.