Parts for your 2020 Nissan Serena-Universal joints

2020 Nissan Serena universal joints: what’s fitted and how to look after them

On the 2020 Nissan Serena (C27 series), universal joints are only relevant on the 4WD variants that run a propeller shaft to the rear differential. Front‑wheel‑drive and e‑POWER models do not use universal joints in the driveline, they rely on constant‑velocity (CV) joints at the front driveshafts and have no prop shaft. This layout difference is confirmed by Nissan’s C27 Serena Service Manual, where the Propeller Shaft (PROP) section applies to 4WD grades (e.g., GFC27/GC27), while the Front Axle (FAX) and Driveline (DLN) sections cover CV joints on FWD/e‑POWER models. The Nissan Electronic Parts Catalog (FAST) likewise lists a propeller shaft assembly with universal joints only for the 4WD Serena. These technical sources make it clear: universal joints are fitted on 4WD Serenas, not on FWD or e‑POWER.

For owners of FWD or e‑POWER Serenas: universal joints aren’t used because the transversely mounted powertrain drives just the front wheels. CV joints handle the larger steering angles and constant rotational speeds better than U‑joints, and with no rear drive, there’s no prop shaft that would require universal joints.

If the vehicle is a 4WD Serena (2020 C27), here’s what the universal joints do and how to keep them sweet during servicing:

Universal joints on the 4WD Serena sit at the ends of the propeller shaft, allowing smooth power transfer from the transmission to the rear diff while the shaft changes angle with body and suspension movement. They’re small, tough cross‑bearings with needle rollers that let the shaft articulate without binding. When they’re healthy, the driveline is quiet and vibration‑free, when they’re worn, the driver will often feel shudder on take‑off, a rhythmic buzz at highway speeds, or hear a clunk when shifting between Drive and Reverse.

During regular servicing (every 10,000–15,000 km for most owners), a quick driveline check goes a long way. A technician should inspect the prop shaft for dents, check the centre support bearing, and feel for play at each U‑joint yoke. Most OEM U‑joints are sealed‑for‑life with no grease nipples, so the focus is on condition: any roughness, rust weeping, or looseness means it’s time to replace. Aftermarket greasable units exist, if fitted, a few pumps of the right chassis grease at service time keeps them protected—just don’t over‑fill.

Replacement is straightforward but benefits from care. Mark the flanges before removal to preserve shaft phasing and balance, and always torque the flange bolts to the service‑manual spec. If a U‑joint has failed, it’s smart to assess the centre bearing and companion flanges at the same visit. Post‑repair, a road test for vibration under load and at cruise helps confirm everything’s aligned. For vehicles that see coastal air, unsealed roads, or frequent towing, a more frequent inspection schedule (say, every 20,000–30,000 km) is good insurance. Catching a tired U‑joint early prevents collateral damage to the prop shaft and differential, and keeps the Serena smooth and quiet on long Kiwi and Aussie drives.

• Watch for: driveline clunk, take‑off shudder, high‑speed vibration.
• Service tips: check for play and rust, maintain shaft phasing, use correct torque, and road‑test after.
• Note: FWD/e‑POWER Serenas don’t have prop shafts or U‑joints—your driveline checks focus on CV boots and joints instead.

Popular questions

Does my 2020 Nissan Serena have universal joints?
Only if it’s a 4WD model. Those grades have a propeller shaft to the rear diff, which uses U‑joints. FWD and e‑POWER versions are front‑drive only and use CV joints at the front axles, with no U‑joints in the driveline.

How long do the universal joints last on a 4WD Serena?
There’s no fixed interval, many last well past 150,000 km. Harsh conditions—salt air, gravel roads, towing—can shorten life. Checking for play and noise at each service lets a mechanic spot wear long before it becomes a vibration or clunk.

Can the universal joints be greased, or are they sealed?
Most factory‑fitted U‑joints on the Serena are sealed‑for‑life. Some aftermarket replacements include grease nipples, if so, a light grease at service time is fine. If they’re sealed and showing play or roughness, replacement is the fix.