Parts for your 2022 Toyota Camry-Universal joints

2022 Toyota Camry universal joints: not applicable to AU/NZ driveline

For 2022 Toyota Camry models sold in Australia and New Zealand, universal joints (U‑joints) aren’t part of the driveline. That’s because every local 2022 Camry variant is front‑wheel drive, using a transaxle and a pair of front drive shafts with constant velocity (CV) joints rather than a rear propeller shaft with U‑joints. This layout is confirmed by Toyota Australia’s 2022 Camry specifications and the Toyota Service Information Repair Manual for the 2022 Camry (Drivetrain/Axle – Front Drive Shaft), which detail CV joints and boots up front and no propeller shaft assembly. Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue for these models likewise lists no prop shaft or serviceable driveline U‑joints.

What does that mean when someone goes hunting for “Camry universal joints”? On AU/NZ vehicles it’s simply not a relevant service item for the drivetrain. Instead, the equivalent wear points are the CV joints and their rubber boots. If those boots crack or split, the grease escapes and road grit gets in, which can lead to clicking on turns and eventual CV failure. So the smart maintenance move during regular servicing is a quick inspection of the CV boots, looking for grease sling, cracks, or tears, and addressing any issues early.

There is a small universal joint on the steering intermediate shaft, but that’s a steering component, not a drivetrain U‑joint. It’s generally maintenance‑free and only inspected if there’s play or binding in the steering.

A quick note for anyone comparing overseas specs: certain North American Camry trims from this era offered all‑wheel drive, which adds a propeller shaft to the rear. That setup can involve non‑serviceable joints specific to those markets. For AU/NZ 2022 Camry owners, though, driveline U‑joints aren’t fitted or serviced.

• Why U‑joints aren’t used on AU/NZ 2022 Camry: front‑wheel drive layout with CV shafts up front.
• What to check instead: CV boots and joints for leaks, splits, or noise on full lock.
• Technical sources: Toyota Australia 2022 Camry specifications, Toyota Service Information Repair Manual (Drivetrain/Axle – Front Drive Shaft, Constant Velocity Joint), Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue for 2022 AU/NZ Camry.

FAQs

Does a 2022 Toyota Camry have universal joints in Australia or New Zealand?
No. Local 2022 Camry models are front‑wheel drive and use CV joints on the front drive shafts. There’s no rear propeller shaft, so no driveline U‑joints to service.

What’s the difference between a U‑joint and a CV joint on a Camry?
A U‑joint is common on rear‑drive prop shafts and handles angle changes but not constant speed through large angles. A CV joint maintains constant rotational speed at greater angles, which is ideal for front‑wheel drive where the wheels also steer. That’s why the Camry uses CV joints up front.

Is there any universal joint on a 2022 Camry at all?
Yes, but only in the steering column’s intermediate shaft, not in the driveline. It’s typically maintenance‑free and only inspected if there are symptoms like stiffness or free play in the steering.