Common U-Joint Problems For The Honda CR-V

Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V is a reliable car that many people choose for their everyday driving. It's an extremely versatile vehicle that does many things well while offering a smooth, comfortable ride with better gas mileage than many comparable SUVs.

Like many other vehicles, the CR-V can have u-joint issues from time to time. A u-joint, or universal joint, is a hinged joint like an elbow that connects two driveshaft components together.  Sometimes u-joint issues occur due to regular wear and tear over time. In other cases, they can be a sign of bigger problems with your car.

In this guide, we'll cover:

  • The most common symptoms of u-joint failure in Honda CR-Vs
  • Useful diagnostic tips
  • The most common reasons why u-joints fail in CR-Vs
  • Where to find OEM replacement parts

Honda CR-V U-Joint Failure Symptoms

You'll recognize a problem with a universal joint when you experience these failure symptoms:

  • Slight vibration when driving at low speeds that seems to get gradually worse over time
  • Jerking or lagging followed by a clunking noise when pressing or releasing the accelerator
  • Clunking/ringing noise when you shift the transmission from drive to reverse or vice versa
  • Banging noise coming from the chassis at low speeds
  • Transmission or differential fluid leaks

Honda CR-V U-Joint Diagnosis Tips

It is not uncommon for higher mileage CR-Vs to develop u-joint problems. The best way to diagnose problems is by visually inspecting the u-joints and checking for excessive play. If you are not able to do a visual inspection, there's another test you can perform. With your car running, put your foot on the brake and shift the into reverse. Then, keeping your foot on the brake, shift into drive. If your CR-V makes a clunking sound, or you can feel a thunk after engaging drive, it's a sign your u-joints likely need to be replaced.

The Most Common Reasons Honda CR-Vs Have U-Joint Issues

Honda crv ujoint

Image Credit: JoesJunk

The primary reason u-joins have issues is due to high mileage and wear and tear over time. But there are other factors that can cause issues including: 

  • Steep operating angles caused by lifting the vehicle
  • Regularly carrying heavy loads
  • Lack of lubrication

Where To Find OEM Replacement Parts 

Honda CRV ujoint

The best place to find quality OEM replacement parts is Suburban Auto Parts. As one of the largest dealer groups in the country, we have a huge selection of genuine OEM parts and accessories in-stock and ready to ship. And because we have so many parts, we're able to offer discount pricing that most other OEM parts sellers can't match. Additionally, because our parts inventory is located in multiple warehouses, we're able to offer fast shipping to buyers anywhere in the continental US. When you buy from us, you can expect your parts will arrive as quickly as possible.

Best of all, our team of experts is ready to answer questions and help you find the parts you need - just call or email.