LR
All faults
Gearbox & transferMedium severity

Worn propshaft universal joints

Will get worse if left.

Symptoms

Clunk on take-up, vibration that increases with speed, squeaking under the vehicle at low speed.

Likely cause

Dry or worn UJ bearings, worn sliding joint splines, or a prop shaft fitted out of phase.

Suggested fixes

Listed roughly in the order most owners try them.

  1. 1

    Replace the universal joints

    Press out the old joints and fit greaseable UJs. Grease every service.

    Difficulty:
    Moderate DIY
    Cost:
    £ (Under about £50 in parts)
  2. 2

    Fit an exchange propshaft

    If the sliding joint splines are worn, an exchange prop is quicker and fully balanced.

    Difficulty:
    Easy DIY
    Cost:
    ££ (About £50 to £300)
  3. 3

    Check propshaft phasing

    The yokes at each end must be in line. A shaft reassembled out of phase causes vibration.

    Difficulty:
    Easy DIY
    Cost:
    £ (Under about £50 in parts)

This is general guidance gathered from owner experience and workshop practice, not a substitute for a workshop manual or a qualified mechanic. Costs are rough parts-only guides. Brakes, steering and suspension work affects safety, so if in doubt have it checked professionally.

Related faults