Parts for your 2020 Toyota Camry-Universal joints

Are universal joints used on the 2020 Toyota Camry?

Short answer: not for the driveline on Australian and New Zealand models. The 2020 Toyota Camry (XV70) sold in AU/NZ uses a transverse front-wheel-drive transaxle with front half‑shafts that have constant‑velocity (CV) joints, not tailshaft-style universal joints. This layout is shown in Toyota’s New Car Features (NCF) for XV70 and the Toyota Repair Manual/TIS sections for “Front Drive Shaft” and “Axle and Differential,” as well as the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue, which lists inboard/outboard CV joints and no propeller shaft or greaseable U‑joints on AU/NZ models.

Universal joints (Cardan joints) are common on rear‑wheel drive vehicles with a longitudinal propeller shaft. Because the AU/NZ Camry is front‑wheel drive, there’s no tailshaft to the rear, so there’s no place for driveline U‑joints. Toyota instead uses CV joints at each front axle, which maintain constant angular velocity and suit the large steering and suspension angles of a FWD MacPherson strut layout. These details are consistent with Toyota’s NCF and Repair Manual design descriptions for XV70 front drive shafts (Rzeppa-type outer joints and tripod/DOJ-style inner joints).

There is a small exception: the steering intermediate shaft typically includes a compact universal joint to accommodate steering column angles. That part is documented in the Steering section of the Toyota Repair Manual/EWD, but it isn’t a serviceable driveline U‑joint and isn’t what parts catalogues mean when they advertise “universal joints” for tailshafts.

• Why U‑joints aren’t used on the 2020 Camry’s driveline: CV joints provide true constant velocity, which reduces torque fluctuation, vibration and tyre scrub during cornering, they handle greater articulation for FWD steering geometry, and they package neatly with a transverse engine and transaxle. These choices align with Toyota’s NVH and durability targets noted in technical literature.

Servicing tip for owners searching “universal joints” for a Camry: focus on CV joints and boots. During regular servicing, technicians should inspect the front CV boots for splits or grease fling, check for clicking on full lock (outer CV wear), and look for vibration under load (possible inner joint wear). If the steering feels notchy or doesn’t self‑centre smoothly, the intermediate shaft universal joint can be checked, but it’s usually replaced as an assembly rather than lubricated. For markets where AWD Camry exists, the propeller shaft design may use non‑serviceable joints, that configuration isn’t fitted to AU/NZ variants—confirm by VIN if unsure.

Popular questions about 2020 Toyota Camry universal joints

Does a 2020 Toyota Camry have universal joints I need to service?

On AU/NZ models, there are no driveline U‑joints to service because the car is front‑wheel drive with CV joints on the front half‑shafts. The only “U‑joint” you might encounter is in the steering intermediate shaft, and it’s typically a replace‑as‑needed item rather than a regular service part.

What should I check instead of universal joints on my 2020 Camry?

Ask your workshop to inspect the front CV boots for cracks or grease leaks, listen for clicking on full lock, check axle seals for seepage, and road‑test for vibration under load. If the steering feels stiff or binds, they can assess the steering intermediate shaft joint. These are the realistic wear points on an AU/NZ Camry.

How can I tell if a CV joint or steering U‑joint is failing?

Outer CV joints usually click or clack when accelerating while turning, inner joints can cause shudder or vibration on straight‑line acceleration. A worn steering intermediate shaft joint may cause notchy steering, poor self‑centring, or a faint clunk when turning the wheel. Any of these symptoms warrant a professional inspection.