Parts for your 2020 Nissan X-trail-Driveshafts

2020 Nissan X-TRAIL Driveshafts — What They Do and How to Look After Them

Driveshafts absolutely are used on the 2020 Nissan X-TRAIL (T32). The Nissan X-TRAIL T32 Series Service Manual details front drive shafts (CV axles) on all 2WD and 4WD models, plus a propeller shaft and rear drive shafts on 4WD (ALL MODE 4x4-i) variants. Nissan’s Electronic Parts Catalogue likewise lists left/right front drive shaft assemblies, and for 4WD, a propeller shaft and rear drive shafts. So, for this model, driveshafts are bang on relevant and vital to how it puts power to the road.

On every 2020 X-TRAIL, the front CV driveshafts transfer torque from the transaxle to the wheels while allowing for steering angle and suspension travel. On 4WD versions, a propeller shaft sends drive to the rear differential, and rear CV driveshafts deliver that torque to the back wheels. When everything’s healthy, it’s smooth, quiet and efficient.

Servicing an X-TRAIL? It’s smart to include driveshaft checks. CV joints rely on rubber boots packed with grease, if a boot splits, grease escapes and water or grit gets in, quickly wearing the joint. The propeller shaft on 4WD models has joints and a centre support bearing that should be checked for play, noise or perished rubber.

• Inspect CV boots at each service interval (typically 10,000–15,000 km). Look for splits, grease sling, or clamps that have loosened.
• Listen for clicking on tight turns (front CV joint wear) and feel for vibration on acceleration or at highway speeds (possible driveshaft or prop shaft issues).
• On 4WD, check the propeller shaft for free play, torn centre bearing rubber, and any thumps on take-off.

If a boot is torn but the joint hasn’t copped damage, a boot kit can often sort it. If there’s clicking, binding, blueing from heat, or excessive play, a complete driveshaft replacement is usually the go. For 4WD prop shafts, many joints are non-serviceable, if there’s rumble or lash, replacement of the assembly or centre bearing may be required.

• Use quality parts, new axle nuts and seals where specified by Nissan’s workshop manual.
• Torque fasteners to the factory spec and stake axle nuts correctly.
• Avoid levering against transmission or diff seals when removing shafts, replace any weeping seals.
• After any driveshaft work, road test for noise/vibration and re-check for leaks.

Look after the boots and they’ll look after the joints. That’s the key to long-lived, quiet driveline operation on the 2020 X-TRAIL.

Do all 2020 X-TRAILs have a rear driveshaft?

No. Only the 4WD (ALL MODE 4x4-i) variants have a rear propeller shaft and rear driveshafts. Front-wheel drive models have front CV driveshafts only. If there’s a 2WD badge and no rear diff, there’s no rear prop shaft fitted.

How long do the driveshafts last on a 2020 X-TRAIL?

With intact boots and regular checks, many run well past 150,000–200,000 km. The main killer is a torn boot that lets grease out and grit in. Catch a split early and it’s often a simple boot job, leave it and the joint can wear quickly.

What does it usually cost to replace a front CV driveshaft or boot?

Costs vary by brand and labour rates, but as a rough guide in AU/NZ: a front CV boot job can land a few hundred dollars fitted, while a complete new or remanufactured front shaft is commonly higher. 4WD prop shaft or centre bearing replacements generally cost more. A quick inspection is the best way to get a proper quote.