Parts for your 2021 Toyota Camry-Universal joints

Are universal joints used on the 2021 Toyota Camry?

Short answer: not for the driveline. On a 2021 Toyota Camry sold in Australia and New Zealand, the front-drive system uses constant-velocity (CV) joints on the drive shafts, not traditional cross-type universal joints. This is documented in Toyota’s Repair Manual for the XV70-series Camry (Drivetrain/Axle – Front Drive Shaft) and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (Front Axle Hub & Drive Shaft), which both list inboard and outboard CV joints as the torque-transfer joints at the wheels.

Why no universal joints here? CV joints provide smooth, constant-speed rotation through big steering and suspension angles, which is perfect for a front-wheel-drive passenger car. Traditional U-joints can introduce velocity fluctuation at higher angles, creating vibration and wear that’s not ideal for the Camry’s refinement targets. Toyota’s choice is reflected across the model line-up and service documentation.

There is, however, a small universal joint in the steering intermediate shaft. Toyota’s parts catalogue (Steering Column & Shaft – “Shaft Sub-Assy, Steering Intermediate”) shows a cross-type joint to accommodate steering column angles. It’s part of the steering shaft assembly and isn’t the same as a driveline U-joint that you’d find on a rear-wheel-drive ute.

For owners searching for “Camry universal joints” as a maintenance item, what you’re really after is CV joint and boot inspection. During routine servicing, technicians check the CV boots for splits, grease sling, or cracks and listen for clicking on lock under load. If a boot is damaged, renewing it promptly (and re-greasing the joint) can save the CV joint from premature wear. If noise or play is present, the usual fix is replacing the affected drive shaft assembly.

If you’ve heard about AWD Camry models in other markets: Toyota service and parts information describe a complete propeller shaft assembly with non-serviceable joints, Toyota doesn’t list separate universal-joint service parts for that shaft. AWD wasn’t offered in Australia or New Zealand for 2021, so this won’t apply to local vehicles.

• Driveline joints on 2021 Camry AU/NZ: CV joints (service boots/shafts as required).
• Steering linkage: has a small universal joint within the intermediate shaft assembly, replace the assembly if there’s binding or play.
• Technical references: Toyota Repair Manual (XV70 Drivetrain/Axle), Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue, and Toyota Australia model specifications for 2021 Camry (FWD only).

Popular questions

Does a 2021 Toyota Camry have universal joints?
In the driveline, no—it uses CV joints on the front drive shafts. There is a universal joint in the steering intermediate shaft, but it’s part of the steering column assembly and not a routine service item.

What should be serviced instead of universal joints on a Camry?
Have the CV boots inspected for splits and leaks, and listen for clicking on full lock. Damaged boots should be replaced and the joint re-greased. If a joint is noisy or loose, the usual remedy is a replacement drive shaft assembly.

Can the steering universal joint be replaced separately?
Toyota typically supplies the steering intermediate shaft as a complete assembly. If there’s binding, corrosion, or play at the joint, the recommended repair is to replace the intermediate shaft and then perform a steering angle and alignment check.