Parts for your 2020 Nissan Serena-Cv joint

2020 Nissan Serena CV Joint — purpose, care and when to replace

Yes, the 2020 Nissan Serena uses CV joints. The C27-series Serena is front-wheel drive (with optional 4WD on some trims) and, per Nissan’s workshop literature, the front drive shafts are built with an outer Rzeppa/Birfield-style constant velocity joint and an inner tripod-type CV joint. This layout is shown in the Nissan Serena (C27) Service Manual under the Front Axle/Drive Shaft section, and the Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue (FAST) lists “Joint Assy – Outer, Drive Shaft” and inner joint/boot kits for C27 models, including e-POWER variants where the front electric motor still drives half-shafts via CV joints.

On the Serena, CV joints let the front wheels put power down smoothly while steering and moving through the suspension’s travel. That means no binding, no shuddering, and nice, even acceleration around town or loaded up for a family trip. They’re packed with special grease and sealed by flexible rubber boots, so keeping those boots intact is the big ticket to long life.

There’s no fixed replacement interval for CV joints themselves, but the boots should be checked at each service. If a boot splits and flings grease, the joint can wear quickly. Catch it early and a new boot and grease is usually all that’s needed, leave it too long and you’ll be up for a complete shaft or joint.

• Common warning signs: a rhythmic clicking on tight turns, grease sprayed around the inside of the wheel or under the guard, vibration on throttle, or a clunk when taking off.
• Good practice: inspect boots every 10,000–15,000 km, especially after gravel-road use, replace clamps that have loosened, use the specified high-moly CV grease.
• Replacement tips: use a new axle nut, torque everything to Nissan spec, and don’t let the inner joint hang unsupported while the strut is free. A wheel alignment isn’t usually required for a shaft swap, but it’s smart to check if anything else was disturbed.

Owners who keep an eye on boots and noises typically see well over 150,000 km from Serena CV joints. If there’s any doubt, a quick inspection under the bonnet and at the front hubs during a tyre rotation can save a lot of drama later.

Technical sources referenced: Nissan Serena (C27) Service/Workshop Manual, Front Axle/Drive Shaft sections (2019–2020 editions), Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue (FAST) for C27 Serena, front drive shaft assemblies and CV joint/boot components.

Popular questions

What are the usual symptoms of a worn CV joint on a 2020 Nissan Serena?

Most drivers first notice a clicking or ticking noise on full lock when accelerating slowly, like in a carpark. You might also see grease flung around the wheel or under the guard if a boot has torn. Vibration under load or a dull clunk when taking off can also point to joint wear.

If the boot is only just split and the joint isn’t noisy, a new boot and fresh grease often sorts it. If it’s clicking, plan on replacing the joint or the complete shaft.

How often should the Serena’s CV boots be inspected?

Have them checked at every service or at least every 10,000–15,000 km. It’s quick to do while the Serena’s up for a tyre rotation. After rough-road or coastal driving, it’s worth an extra look because grit and salt can hasten boot and clamp wear.

Can someone keep driving with a clicking CV joint?

It’ll usually keep moving for a while, but the noise indicates wear that only gets worse. Keep driving and you risk joint failure that can leave the vehicle undriveable. It’s safer and cheaper to book it in promptly and get the joint or shaft replaced.