What is the construction and purpose of Cardan joints?

Cardan joints are drivetrain components installed between shaft sections that allow torque transmission at a variable operating angle. A typical assembly consists of a spider, journals, bearings, and mounting points to the shaft or flange. These parts come in various variants depending on the drive design and mounting location in the vehicle.

What are Cardan joints used for?

Cardan joints are used to transfer drive between cooperating shafts that do not operate on one fixed axis. Their role is to compensate for changes in component position resulting from suspension operation and drivetrain movement. Without a functional joint, vibrations, noise, and uneven power transmission may occur.

What is the construction and function of the joint spider?

The joint spider is the central element of a Cardan joint, on which the movement of the arms connected to the shaft relies. It is the part responsible for maintaining the mobility of the connection and transferring loads during rotation. It works with bearings and seats, so its compatibility with the rest of the assembly affects the smoothness of the entire shaft's operation.

How to choose a Cardan joint for a car?

It is safest to compare the OEM number, interchangeable numbers, gearbox type, and location on the vehicle. It is also worth checking the mounting method, engine version, and compatibility with a specific shaft section. For cars available in many variants, verification by VIN is also helpful.

What symptoms indicate wear of Cardan joints?

Most often, these are knocking sounds when starting, vibrations during acceleration, and noticeable uneven operation of the drivetrain. Symptoms may intensify under load or when changing rotational speed. In practice, it is then worth checking the condition of the shaft, support, and mounting points as well.

What to pay attention to when installing a Cardan joint?

During installation, you must maintain the correct positioning of elements, properly align the mounts, and verify the condition of cooperating parts. It is also important not to confuse the mounting side or the operating location of a specific joint in the shaft assembly. After installation, it is worth checking the smoothness of movement and the absence of excessive play.

Propshafts

At the Global Parts automotive store, we offer a wide selection of original used car parts, including cardan joints for many popular car brands such as BMW, Mini, Mercedes, Audi, Volkswagen and others. The cardan joints we offer undergo quality control so that you can be sure that you are receiving a top-class product.

More information

Make

Mercedes W212 Propshaft Shaft OM642 Diesel Drive Shaft Automatic A2124109606

€113.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2214104416

Mercedes W221 Long S350 BlueTec OM642 Drive Propshaft Automatic A2214104416

€113.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2054101402

Mercedes W205 OM626 Diesel Drive Propshaft Prop Shaft Manual A2054101402

€227.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A6394107006

Propshaft Mercedes Vito W639 Automatic Three Piece Wheel Base 3200mm A6394107006

€284.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2054101303

Mercedes W205 M274 Petrol Drive Propshaft Prop Shaft Automatic A2054101303

€94.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2044101016

Mercedes W204 Automatic Drive Prop Shaft Propshaft Transmission M271 A2044101016

€189.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A1724100100

Propshaft Drive Shaft Mercedes SLK R172 OM651 Automatic Transmission A1724100100

€170.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2034102216

Mercedes W203 OM646 Diesel Drive Propshaft Prop Shaft Automatic A2034104606

€66.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2044101406

Mercedes W204 OM646 Diesel Drive Propshaft Prop Shaft Automatic A2044101406

€161.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2044102716

Propshaft Mercedes W204 C180 C200 CDI BlueEff Prop Shaft Automatic A2044102716

€189.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A1714103306

Propshaft Drive Shaft Mercedes SLK R171 M272 Automatic Transmission A1714103306

€203.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2044103516

Propshaft Mercedes W204 Drive Prop Shaft Automatic Transmission M274 A2044103516

€146.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A6394103306

Mercedes Vito W639 Drive Shaft Propshaft Manual Transmission Diesel A6394103306

€237.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2044101216

Propshaft Mercedes W204 Drive Shaft Automatic Transmission OM651 A2044101216

€142.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2044105106

Mercedes W204 Propshaft Drive Shaft Petrol Automatic Transmission A2044100406

€80.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2534103201

Mercedes W205 W213 C253 M276 Petrol Drive Prop Shaft Front Automatic A2534103201

€317.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2044101300

Propshaft Mercedes W204 C63 AMG M156 Prop Drive Shaft A2044101300

€446.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2034110015

Mercedes-Benz W203 W211 Prop Shaft Rubber Donut Flex Disc A2034110015

€23.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A9074102101

Mercedes Sprinter W907 Propshaft Drive Shaft Automatic Transmission A9074102101

€336.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A1764100100

Propshaft Mercedes CLA X117 C117 4matic Automatic Gearbox Propshaft A1764100100

€284.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2054108801

Mercedes W205 M274 Petrol Drive Propshaft Prop Shaft Automatic A2054108801

€184.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2044109706

Mercedes W204 Front Propshaft Drive Shaft Automatic Transmission A2044109706

€165.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2534101101

Mercedes X253 Drive Propshaft Prop Shaft Automatic OM651 Diesel A2534101101

€75.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2034109906

Mercedes W203 C209 Drive Propshaft OM646 Diesel Prop Shaft Automatic A2034109906

€66.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2054106102

Mercedes W205 OM651 Drive Propshaft Prop Shaft Diesel Automatic A2054106102

€113.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2074101200

Mercedes W207 Propshaft Drive Prop Shaft Automatic Transmission M276 A2074101200

€237.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2114102316

Mercedes W211 OM642 Propshaft Drive Shaft Transmission Automatic A2114102316

€161.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2044101416

Propshaft Mercedes W204 C207 Drive Prop Shaft Transmission Automatic A2044101416

€66.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2054109601

Mercedes W205 Propshaft Automatic Gearbox Drive Prop Shaft A2054109601

€89.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2044101816

Propshaft Mercedes W204 C250 CDI OM651 Drive Prop Shaft Manual A2044101816

€170.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2044100116

Mercedes W204 M271 Petrol Propshaft Drive Prop Shaft Transmission A2044100116

€85.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A0004110600

Mercedes-Benz C E S W204 W212 W221 Prop Shaft Rubber Donut Flex Disc A2404110115

€23.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A9064104801

Mercedes Sprinter W906 Propshaft Drive Shaft Manual Transmission A9064104801

€165.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A9064102001-1

Mercedes Sprinter W906 Propshaft Drive Shaft Manual Transmission A9064102001

€113.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2054108003

Mercedes W205 Propshaft Drive Prop Shaft C43 AMG Automatic A2054108003

€222.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A1724101906

Propshaft Drive Shaft Mercedes SLK R172 M271 Automatic Transmission A1724101906

€189.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2114108906

Mercedes W211 OM642 Propshaft Drive Shaft Automatic Transmission A2114108906

€123.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2044102316

Mercedes W204 Propshaft Drive Prop Shaft Transmission A2044102316

€170.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2034101316

Mercedes W203 W209 Drive Propshaft M272 Petrol Prop Shaft Automatic A2034101316

€165.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2054100302

Mercedes W205 OM651 Diesel Drive Propshaft Prop Shaft Automatic A2054100302

€170.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A1664102701

Propshaft Drive Shaft Mercedes ML W166 C292 OM642 Propeller Shaft A1664102701

€189.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2054100402

Mercedes W205 Propshaft Automatic Gearbox Drive Prop Shaft A2054100402

€113.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2534109701

Mercedes X253 OM654 Diesel Drive Propshaft Prop Shaft Automatic A2534109701

€237.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2054108701

Mercedes W205 M264 Petrol Drive Shaft Propshaft Manual A2054108701

€142.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2534100102

Mercedes X253 Drive Propshaft 4matic Automatic M274 Petrol A2534100102

€370.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2034101016

Mercedes W203 C209 Drive Propshaft M271 Petrol Prop Shaft Automatic A2034101016

€66.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2044100216

Mercedes W204 C207 Propshaft Drive Prop Shaft Automatic M271 A2044100216

€180.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A1644100701

Mercedes W164 R W251 Propshaft Transfer Case To Front Axle A1644100701

€42.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A1404100716

Mercedes C140 Propshaft Drive Shaft Propeller Shaft A1404100716

€336.95

Free delivery: Jul 29 – Aug 3

If paid before 14:00

Part no. A2534103302

Mercedes X253 M274 Petrol Drive Propshaft Prop Shaft Front Automatic A2534103302

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A6394103206-1

Mercedes Vito W639 Drive Shaft Propshaft Manual Transmission A6394103206

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A1723500410

Propshaft Drive Shaft Mercedes R172 M276 AMG Automatic Transmission A1723500410

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A4474104700

Mercedes Vito W447 Diesel 4MATIC Propshaft Assembly Automatic A4474104700

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A9064103100

Mercedes Sprinter W906 Propshaft Drive Shaft Automatic Transmission A9064103100

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A1664109700

Mercedes C292 Front Propshaft Drive Shaft Automatic Transmission A1664109700

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A1244102021

Propshaft Drive Shaft Mercedes W124 M103 Petrol Propeller Shaft A1244102021

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A9064105606

Mercedes Sprinter W906 Propshaft Drive Shaft Automatic Transmission A9064105606

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A2114102316-1

Mercedes W211 W219 OM642 Propshaft Joint Disc Donut Coupling A2114110347

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A1724100106

Mercedes R172 M271 Propshaft Drive Shaft Manual Transmission A1724100106

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A6394103406

Mercedes Vito W639 Propshaft Drive Shaft Automatic Transmission A6394103406

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A2214107206

Mercedes W221 S320/350 Propshaft OM642 Drive Prop Shaft Automatic A2214107206

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A1644100501

Mercedes ML W164 280 CDI 4matic Propshaft Transfer Case Front Axle A1644100501

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A2044104216

Mercedes W204 OM651 Propshaft Drive Prop Shaft Manual Transmission A2044104216

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A1714102906

Propshaft Drive Shaft Mercedes SLK R171 M271 Automatic Transmission A1714102906

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A2034100347

Mercedes-Benz C W203 200 Kompressor M111 Propshaft Front Shock Absorber Mount

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A6394103206

Mercedes Vito W639 Drive Shaft Propshaft Manual Transmission A6394103206

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A2044102216

Propshaft Mercedes W204 C207 Drive Prop Shaft Transmission Manual A2044102216

Product currently unavailable

Part no. a1724105500

Propshaft Drive Shaft Mercedes R172 M276 AMG Automatic Transmission A1723500410

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A2214102416

Mercedes W221 Propshaft M272 Drive Prop Shaft Automatic Transmission A2214102416

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A2464100000

Mercedes W176 4Matic Propshaft Shaft OM651 Automatic Transmission A2464100000

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A6394109406

Mercedes Vito W639 Propshaft Drive Shaft Automatic Transmission A6394109406

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A6394101816

Mercedes Vito W639 Propshaft Drive Shaft Automatic Transmission A6394101816

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A2214100816

Mercedes W221 Propshaft OM642 CDI Drive Prop Shaft Automatic A2214100816

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A1644103102

Mercedes-Benz M-Class ML W164 Drive Prop Shaft Propshaft 4-Matic A1644103102

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A9074101501

Mercedes Sprinter W907 Propshaft Drive Shaft Automatic Transmission A9074101501

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A2114109306

Mercedes W211 OM646 Propshaft Automatic Transmission Drive Shaft A2114109306

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A1714102806

Mercedes SLK R171 M271 Propshaft Drive Shaft Manual Transmission A1714102806

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A1664100501

Mercedes ML W166 GL X166 M157 M278 V8 Petrol Front Axle Propshaft A1664100501

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A1644102902

Mercedes GL X164 OM629 Drive Propshaft Prop Shaft Automatic A1644102902

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A2214107106

Mercedes W221 Propshaft OM642 CDI Drive Prop Shaft A2214107106

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A1664103900

Propshaft Mercedes ML350 W166 Diesel OM642 4matic Automatic Transmission

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A1714104406

Propshaft Drive Shaft Mercedes SLK R171 M271 Automatic Transmission A1714104406

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A2124102016

Mercedes W212 E250 CDI Diesel OM651 Propshaft Propeller Shaft Drive A2124102016

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A2214110547

Mercedes W212 Joint Disc Propshaft Universal Joint Rubber Wheel A2214110547

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A1664100601

Propshaft Mercedes ML W166 4matic Transfer Case Differential Shaft A1664100601

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A1634101202

Mercedes ML W163 Drive Prop Shaft Propshaft Automatic A1634101202

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A2044100616

Mercedes W204 W207 Propshaft Drive Shaft Manual OM651 Diesel A2044100616

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A2054110200

Mercedes W205 W207 W212 Prop Shaft Rubber Donut Flex Disc A2054110200

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A2044102916

Mercedes C207 Propshaft Drive Shaft Automatic Transmission A2044102916

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A2044106701

Mercedes W204 Propshaft Drive Shaft Propeller Shaft A2044106701

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A6394108406

Mercedes Vito W639 Propshaft Drive Shaft Automatic Transmission A6394108406

Product currently unavailable

Part no. A2044100106

Propshaft Mercedes W204 Drive Prop Shaft Transmission M271 Petrol A2044100106

Product currently unavailable

Showing 1-92 of 92 products

Cardan joints for flexibility and drivetrain durability

Flexible Cardan joints for drivetrain longevity

Cardan joints, also known as universal joints, are essential components of the drivetrain that allow for the transmission of torque between shafts at various angles. They enable the vehicle to smoothly transfer power from the engine to the wheels, even under conditions of varying suspension geometry. In the Global Parts automotive store, you will find a wide selection of used car parts, including Cardan joints, ideal for brands such as BMW, Audi, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Mini, and others.

What functions do Cardan joints perform?

Cardan joints play a crucial role in the drivetrain:

Torque transmission – They enable the efficient transfer of power between drive shafts at various angles.
Suspension movement compensation – Thanks to their flexible design, they allow the drivetrain to adapt to suspension movements while driving.
Ensuring smooth driving – They minimize vibrations and oscillations, which translates into driving comfort and safety.

Construction and purpose of Cardan joints

Cardan joints are mechanical connections installed in the drivetrain between sections of the shaft. They typically consist of a cross (spider), journals, bearings, and mounting elements, and their task is to transmit torque despite changes in the shaft's operating angle. In practice, the location on the vehicle, the type of gearbox, and compliance with OEM numbers and interchangeable part numbers are also important.

Comparison of Cardan joint variants

Variant / feature	Typical application	What to check before selection
Joint at the gearbox	Connecting the shaft to the drive output	OEM number, gearbox type, diameter, and mounting method
Center shaft joint	Compensating for the operation of a longer drivetrain	Compatibility with shaft length, support position, and body version
Joint at the axle or differential	Transferring drive to the rear axle or final drive	Location on the vehicle, bolt spacing, and flange fitment

Why should you take care of Cardan joints?

Wear or damage to Cardan joints can lead to serious drivetrain problems. Typical symptoms of failure include:

Noise while driving – Knocking or clicking sounds may indicate worn joints.
Vibrations during acceleration – Damaged joints can cause vibrations transmitted to the body.
Uneven power transmission – Problems with joints can disrupt the smoothness of torque transfer to the wheels. If a replacement is needed, at Global Parts you will find suitable used Cardan joints that will restore full functionality to your drivetrain.

The role of the spider and cooperating elements

The Cardan joint spider is the part that connects the joint arms and allows the system to operate at a variable angle. This element works with bearings, housings, and the shaft, so when selecting, it is worth comparing not only the part number itself but also the mounting type and position in the drivetrain. A useful supplement during verification is also browsing the Cardan joint bearings and cross joints category.

How to choose the right Cardan joints?

When choosing Cardan joints, several key aspects should be considered:

Fitment to the vehicle model – Every drivetrain has its specific technical requirements. At Global Parts, you will find Cardan joints perfectly matched to BMW, Audi, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Mini, and others.
Technical condition – Used joints should be free from excessive wear, corrosion, and mechanical damage.
Joint type – Ensure that the selected joint is compatible with your vehicle's drivetrain design.

Selection by OEM number and vehicle parameters

The OEM number is the manufacturer's designation that allows you to compare part compatibility with a specific car version. When choosing a joint, it is worth checking the brand, fuel type, condition, OEM part number, interchangeable numbers, gearbox type, and location on the vehicle. For parts such as a BMW X3 E83 drive shaft, it is particularly important to compare flanges, assembly length, and drive version.

Matching Cardan joints to specific drivetrains

When selecting elements for shaft repair, it is worth comparing not only the joint itself but also parts from the Cardan joints and parts group as well as selected Other Cardan joint parts. When choosing an element such as a BMW E60 530d drive shaft, compatibility with the Diesel engine version, mounting system, and assembly point at the gearbox or axle is important. If you are looking for a component such as a Vito 639 drive shaft, you must verify the OEM number, connection spacing, and vehicle body type.

Why choose used Cardan joints?

Used car parts, such as used Cardan joints, are an economical solution that allows for savings while maintaining high quality. By choosing used Cardan joints, you gain:

Lower costs – Used components are significantly cheaper than new ones but offer equally high quality.
Ecology – Recycling car parts supports environmental protection and reduces waste.
Wide offer – In our store, you will find used Cardan joints for the most popular car brands. For those completing a larger repair, the guide to the most frequently chosen original parts for popular car brands and models may be useful, which helps compare which components are most often selected together with drivetrain elements.

How to take care of Cardan joints?

To ensure Cardan joints work reliably for a long time, it is worth following a few rules:

Regular inspections – Check the condition of the joints during periodic technical inspections.
Lubrication – Ensure that the joints are properly lubricated, which reduces friction and wear.
Avoid overloading the vehicle – Excessive load can accelerate joint wear.

FAQ

Question	Answer
What is the construction and purpose of Cardan joints?	Cardan joints are drivetrain components installed between shaft sections that allow torque transmission at a variable operating angle. A typical assembly consists of a spider, journals, bearings, and mounting points to the shaft or flange. These parts come in various variants depending on the drive design and mounting location in the vehicle.
What are Cardan joints used for?	Cardan joints are used to transfer drive between cooperating shafts that do not operate on one fixed axis. Their role is to compensate for changes in component position resulting from suspension operation and drivetrain movement. Without a functional joint, vibrations, noise, and uneven power transmission may occur.
What is the construction and function of the joint spider?	The joint spider is the central element of a Cardan joint, on which the movement of the arms connected to the shaft relies. It is the part responsible for maintaining the mobility of the connection and transferring loads during rotation. It works with bearings and seats, so its compatibility with the rest of the assembly affects the smoothness of the entire shaft's operation.
How to choose a Cardan joint for a car?	It is safest to compare the OEM number, interchangeable numbers, gearbox type, and location on the vehicle. It is also worth checking the mounting method, engine version, and compatibility with a specific shaft section. For cars available in many variants, verification by VIN is also helpful.
What symptoms indicate wear of Cardan joints?	Most often, these are knocking sounds when starting, vibrations during acceleration, and noticeable uneven operation of the drivetrain. Symptoms may intensify under load or when changing rotational speed. In practice, it is then worth checking the condition of the shaft, support, and mounting points as well.
What to pay attention to when installing a Cardan joint?	During installation, you must maintain the correct positioning of elements, properly align the mounts, and verify the condition of cooperating parts. It is also important not to confuse the mounting side or the operating location of a specific joint in the shaft assembly. After installation, it is worth checking the smoothness of movement and the absence of excessive play.

Summary: Cardan joints at the Global Parts automotive store

Cardan joints are essential drivetrain components that ensure smooth and reliable driving. By taking care of their technical condition, you can avoid serious failures and enjoy driving comfort. At Global Parts, used parts are available for many car models, including for brands such as BMW, Mercedes, Audi, and others, and when selecting, it is worth comparing the OEM number, mounting location, and drivetrain version. We invite you to contact us – we are here to help you! For more information and interesting facts, we also invite you to our automotive blog.

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