Parts for your 2020 Toyota Hilux-Universal joints

2020 Toyota Hilux universal-joints: what they do and how to look after them

According to Toyota’s Hilux AN120/AN130 Repair Manual (Propeller Shaft with Universal Joint section) and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue for the 2020 model, universal-joints are definitely fitted and relevant to this vehicle. They’re used on the rear propeller shaft in 4x2 models and on both the rear and front propeller shafts in 4x4 variants. Driveline diagrams in the workshop literature clearly identify cross-and-bearing (spider) universal joints at each end of the shafts.

On a 2020 Toyota Hilux, the universal-joints (often called U-joints) are the small but hard-working hinges that let the propeller shafts transmit torque while dealing with suspension movement and driveline angles. They keep the ute smooth and quiet on-road, and tough and predictable off-road. Without healthy universal-joints, the Hilux can develop clunks, shudders, and accelerated wear elsewhere in the driveline.

Most factory-fitted universal-joints on this generation Hilux are sealed units, so there’s typically no grease nipple and no routine greasing required. The smart move is regular inspection as part of scheduled servicing—especially if it tows, carries heavy loads, sees corrugations, or tackles water crossings. A quick check every 20,000–40,000 km (or at each service for heavy-duty use) helps catch issues early. Look for dry or split seals, rust-coloured dust around the caps, and any play in the joint. A light squeak at low speed, a clunk selecting drive or reverse, or a vibration under load around highway speeds are classic warning signs.

If a universal-joint is worn, replacement is the fix. Many owners replace just the failed joint, but on high-kay vehicles it can be worth doing adjacent joints to keep things even. When replacing, mark the shaft and flanges so everything goes back in the same phase, use quality clips and caps, and torque flange bolts to the workshop spec. If the shaft has been apart, a balance check is good insurance against lingering vibration. After refit, recheck the flange bolt torque after the first drive.

For Hiluxes fitted with aftermarket greaseable joints, a few pumps of high-quality NLGI #2 lithium complex EP grease at service time is plenty—don’t overfill. Whether sealed or greaseable, keeping water and grit out is the name of the game. Treated right, Hilux universal-joints handle Aussie and Kiwi conditions without drama and keep the ute driving tight and tidy.

• Watch for: low-speed squeak, driveline clunk, vibration under load, rust dust at caps, or noticeable play.
• Service tip: inspect at 20,000–40,000 km intervals, sooner after deep water, mud, or heavy towing.

Popular questions

How often should universal-joints be checked on a 2020 Hilux?
They’re worth a look at each scheduled service, with a closer inspection every 20,000–40,000 km. If the ute tows, does beach work, or sees frequent water crossings, check more often. Early signs—like a light squeak or a small amount of play—are cheaper to sort before they turn into vibrations or flange wear.

What are the common symptoms of a failing universal-joint?
Owners often notice a chirp or squeak at low speeds that changes with road speed, a clunk shifting between drive and reverse, or a vibration on acceleration around 60–100 km/h. Rusty dust near the bearing caps and any detectable play in the joint are also red flags.

Can just one universal-joint be replaced, or does the whole shaft need doing?
It’s common to replace only the worn joint, provided the yokes and splines are in good nick. On higher-kay or harsh-use vehicles, replacing the opposite joint on the same shaft can be sensible. If the shaft has been separated or shows balance weights, consider a balance check after the repair.