Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Section 6 (Axle Shafts - Front & Rear): Description
On RAV4 and Sequoia models, axle shafts transfer power from transaxle to front wheels (FWD), or front and rear wheels (AWD). MR2 is a mid-engine, RWD design. Axle shafts transfer power from transaxle to rear wheels. On Highlander, axle shafts transfer power from transfer case to front wheels when transfer case is engaged. Axle shaft consists of axle shaft with flexible Constant Velocity (CV) joint at each end. On RAV4 and Sequoia, front inner CV joint is splined to transaxle. On RAV4, rear inner CV joint is bolted to differential and outer CV joint is splined to front or rear hub assembly. On MR2 models, rear inner CV joint is splined to transaxle and Outer CV joint is splined to rear hub assembly.
Inner and outer CV joints are enclosed by a CV joint boot. Boot maintains lubrication in CV joint and prevents contamination of CV lubricant. Boots must be replaced if cracked, torn or damaged. Inner CV joint can be repaired without replacing assembly but outer CV joint must be replaced as an assembly.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.