Parts for your 2023 Toyota Camry-Universal joints

2023 Toyota Camry universal joints — are they used?

For the 2023 Toyota Camry sold in Australia and New Zealand, universal joints (U‑joints) in the driveline aren’t a thing. Local models are front‑wheel drive (FWD) hybrids, so there’s no rear differential or propeller shaft where traditional U‑joints would normally live. Technical documentation backs this: Toyota Australia’s 2023 Camry specifications list FWD across the range, and Toyota’s Repair Manual/New Car Features for the AXVH70 series detail front drive shafts with inboard tripod and outboard Rzeppa constant‑velocity (CV) joints, with no propeller shaft section for 2WD models.

That’s by design. U‑joints are typically found on rear‑wheel drive or AWD vehicles with a longitudinal drivetrain and a tail shaft. On FWD platforms like the AU/NZ Camry, CV joints are preferred because they maintain constant rotational speed at larger steering and suspension angles, delivering smoother NVH and better packaging up front. It’s the right tool for the job.

Worth noting: in some overseas markets the 2023 Camry is available with AWD. Those variants add a propeller shaft to the rear, and the assembly uses non‑serviceable joints from the factory (the whole shaft is replaced if worn), per Toyota’s service literature. That AWD setup isn’t offered in Australia or New Zealand.

So, if someone’s chasing a “U‑joint” for a 2023 Camry here, what they likely need are front CV joint/drive shaft components, or they’re diagnosing something else entirely. Also, while there is a small universal‑type coupling on the intermediate steering shaft, it’s unrelated to the driveline and isn’t a routine service item unless there’s play or corrosion.

• Driveline design: FWD hybrid with CV joints, no propeller shaft, no driveline U‑joints.
• Technical sources: Toyota Australia 2023 Camry specs (FWD), Toyota Repair Manual/NCF for AXVH70 (CV joints, no prop shaft on 2WD), Toyota TIS notes AWD variants use a propeller shaft assembly in other markets.
• Servicing tip: For clunks, vibrations or clicking on turn, inspect CV joints/boots, engine and trans mounts, not a non‑existent driveline U‑joint.

Popular questions

Does a 2023 Camry in Australia or New Zealand have driveline universal joints?
No. Local 2023 Camry models are FWD and use CV joints on the front drive shafts. There’s no rear propeller shaft, so no driveline U‑joints to service or replace. If there’s a vibration or a knock, start with CV joints/boots, wheel bearings, or mounts.

What joints does the 2023 Camry actually use in the driveline?
It runs inboard tripod CV joints and outboard Rzeppa CV joints on each front drive shaft, as outlined in Toyota’s Repair Manual for the AXVH70 series. These are sealed for life and inspected during routine servicing for boot integrity and leaks.

Is there any universal joint on the car at all?
There’s a universal‑type coupling in the intermediate steering shaft, but it’s part of the steering column, not the driveline. It’s generally maintenance‑free and only addressed if there’s free play, stiffness, or corrosion during inspection.