Parts for your 2023 Mitsubishi Asx-Universal joints

2023 Mitsubishi ASX universal joints – are they actually used?

Short answer: universal joints aren’t a thing on the 2023 Mitsubishi ASX sold in Australia and New Zealand. The ASX in this market is front‑wheel drive only, so it doesn’t run a rear propeller shaft where traditional universal joints (u‑joints) would normally live. Instead, it uses constant velocity (CV) joints on the front driveshafts. This layout is confirmed by manufacturer data and workshop literature that specify 2WD driveline architecture and list CV jointed front shafts with no propeller shaft assembly.

On a vehicle with a transverse engine and front‑drive transaxle like the 2023 ASX, CV joints are preferred because they transmit torque smoothly at the larger steering and suspension angles seen at the front wheels. Classic cardan‑type universal joints are more common on longitudinal rear‑wheel drive or part‑time 4WD utes and SUVs with a separate prop shaft. With no rear differential or prop shaft on the AU/NZ ASX, there’s simply nowhere for driveline u‑joints to be used.

What should owners keep an eye on instead? The front CV boots and joints. Split boots or lost grease can lead to clicking on turns or vibration under load. Regular servicing should include inspecting CV boots for tears, checking for grease fling around the inner guards, and listening for any clicking when turning on full lock. Note there is an intermediate steering shaft that uses a small universal joint, but it’s unrelated to the driveline and is not the “universal joint” most people ask about when chasing drivetrain noises.

If you’ve got a private import or a different market variant branded RVR/Outlander Sport with on‑demand AWD, the prop shaft assembly (where fitted) is typically CV‑type at each end rather than serviceable greasable u‑joints. Always check the exact VIN‑specific service information.

• Technical references: Mitsubishi Motors Australia 2023 ASX specifications (2WD driveline), Mitsubishi ASX/RVR/Outlander Sport service manual (Front Axle/Driveshaft section specifies CV joints, no propeller shaft section for 2WD), Mitsubishi electronic parts catalogue for 2023 ASX (lists front drive shaft assemblies with CV joints and no rear prop shaft for AU/NZ models).

FAQs

Does a 2023 Mitsubishi ASX have universal joints?
No. Australian and New Zealand 2023 ASX models are front‑wheel drive only and use CV joints on the front driveshafts. There’s no rear prop shaft and no driveline u‑joints fitted.

What should be serviced instead of universal joints on an ASX?
Have the front CV boots and joints inspected during routine servicing. Look for split boots, grease leaks, and listen for clicking on full lock. Also check wheel bearings, engine/transmission mounts, and tyre balance if there’s vibration.

Could a vibration be a bad universal joint on my ASX?
Unlikely on AU/NZ models. Vibration under acceleration is more commonly due to a worn inner CV joint, a damaged CV boot that’s lost grease, out‑of‑balance tyres, or a fatigued mount. A proper inspection will pinpoint it quickly.