Parts for your 2019 Volvo Xc60-Universal joints

2019 Volvo XC60 universal joints — are they used?

For the 2019 Volvo XC60, traditional driveline universal joints (the cross-style U-joints found on many ladder-frame utes and older 4x4s) aren’t used. This SPA-platform Volvo runs constant velocity (CV) joints on its front driveshafts, and AWD variants use a propeller shaft with CV joints at each end and a centre support bearing. Front-wheel drive models don’t have a prop shaft at all. These configurations are confirmed in Volvo VIDA workshop information for the 2019 XC60 and in Volvo Genuine Parts catalogues that list the propeller shaft as an assembly with CV joints rather than serviceable U-joints. Driveline suppliers such as GKN Driveline and SKF also note modern AWD SUVs commonly use CV joints to control noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) over a wide range of angles where cardan U-joints would introduce speed fluctuations and vibration.

So, while there is a small universal joint in the steering intermediate shaft, that’s a steering component and not what most people mean when they search for “universal joints” as a driveline service item. It’s typically replaced as a complete shaft if worn, not greased or serviced like an old-school U-joint.

Why Volvo doesn’t use traditional U-joints on the XC60 driveline comes down to refinement, packaging, and service strategy:

• CV joints maintain constant rotational velocity through angles, improving smoothness and NVH.
• They suit the XC60’s suspension geometry and all-wheel-drive packaging on the SPA platform.
• Volvo specifies sealed-for-life assemblies, instead of greasing U-joints, technicians inspect boots, bearings and mounts, and replace assemblies if required.

If chasing a noise or vibration that might be mistaken for a failing U-joint, a technician will instead check the prop shaft centre support bearing, CV joint play, boot integrity and clamps, the angle gear and rear diff seals, and engine/gearbox mounts. VIDA procedures outline inspections and torque specs for these components on the 2019 XC60.

Bottom line: a “universal-joints” listing isn’t relevant for the 2019 Volvo XC60’s driveline. Focus maintenance on CV joints, boots, the centre support bearing, and mounts, and keep the steering intermediate shaft in mind if there’s play or a notchy feel at the wheel.

Popular questions about 2019 Volvo XC60 universal-joints

Does a 2019 XC60 have universal joints in the driveline?
Not the traditional cross-type U-joints. The AWD propeller shaft uses CV joints at each end with a centre support bearing, and FWD models don’t have a prop shaft. A small U-joint exists in the steering intermediate shaft, but that’s a steering part rather than a driveline service item.

What’s causing a thump or vibration that feels like a bad U-joint?
On an XC60 it’s more likely a worn prop shaft centre support bearing, play in a prop shaft CV joint, a damaged CV boot letting grease out, or a tired engine/gearbox mount. Tyre and wheel balance issues can also mimic driveline vibration. A road test followed by underbody inspection per VIDA is the go.

Can the prop shaft joints be greased or replaced individually?
No routine greasing is specified. The XC60’s prop shaft and CV joints are sealed assemblies. If there’s wear or boot damage, the usual fix is to replace the affected assembly or joint as supplied by Volvo or a quality OEM supplier, and renew any single-use bolts as specified.