Genuine Mazda Driveshaft Retaining Snap Ring / C-Clip
Replacement Genuine Mazda rear-driveshaft retaining clip for all Mazda MX-5 Mk3, Mk3.5 and Mk3.75 NC and Mk4 ND/RF models.
This snap ring fits to the splined inner end of the rear driveshaft and retains the shaft positively within the differential.
As the driveshaft is inserted into the differential, the clip compresses and then expands into its retaining position. This prevents the shaft from moving outward during normal drivetrain and suspension movement.
The same clip is used on the left- and right-hand driveshafts. Two clips are fitted per vehicle, while this listing supplies one Genuine Mazda retaining clip.
- Part type: Driveshaft retaining snap ring
- Common names: Driveshaft C-clip / axle retaining ring / output-shaft clip
- Mazda catalogue description: Clip
- System: Rear driveshaft and differential
- Installation position: Splined inner end of the rear driveshaft
- Function: Retains the driveshaft within the differential
- Side application: Left or right
- Quantity fitted per vehicle: 2
- Quantity supplied: 1 clip
- Driveshaft included: No
- Differential included: No
- Oil seal included: No
- Brand: Genuine Mazda
- Part No.: G054-25-421
- Previous Mazda reference: G005-25-710A
- MX-5 fitment: Mk3/Mk3.5/Mk3.75 NC and Mk4 ND/RF
Typical reasons for replacement:
- Driveshaft removed from the differential
- Original clip stretched or distorted during removal
- Clip damaged while installing the driveshaft
- Original retaining clip missing
- Driveshaft not locating securely in the differential
- Driveshaft, differential or differential oil seal being replaced
- Clip corroded or no longer retaining correctly
Quantity advice: One clip is used on each rear driveshaft. This listing supplies one clip; order two when removing or replacing both driveshafts.
Replacement advice: Renew the retaining clip whenever it has been distorted, overstretched or damaged during driveshaft removal. Reusing a weakened clip may prevent the shaft from locking securely into the differential.
Installation advice: Fit the clip correctly into the groove at the inner end of the driveshaft. Ensure it sits evenly and is not twisted or excessively expanded before inserting the shaft into the differential.
Driveshaft installation: Align the splines carefully and press the driveshaft inward until the clip engages. Do not strike the joint or shaft in a manner that could damage the CV joint, splines or differential.
Retention check: After installation, pull the driveshaft outward firmly by hand to confirm that the clip has engaged and the shaft cannot withdraw from the differential.
Seal inspection: Inspect the differential output-shaft oil seal for damage, hardening or leakage while the driveshaft is removed. Avoid damaging the seal lip with the driveshaft splines during installation.
Other items to inspect: Check the driveshaft splines, CV joints, boots, differential oil seals, wheel-hub connection and the corresponding clip on the opposite side.
Useful tools / consumables: Vehicle lift or axle stands, driveshaft-removal tools, suitable pry bar, soft-faced mallet where appropriate, snap-ring pliers if required, differential oil and replacement oil seals where necessary.
Difficulty guide: DIY Difficulty: Moderate to Advanced. Clip installation is straightforward, but access normally requires driveshaft removal and careful handling of the differential oil seal and CV joints.
Why Genuine Mazda? Genuine Mazda retaining clips match the original wire diameter, spring tension and driveshaft-groove arrangement. Correct retention helps ensure the driveshaft remains positively located in the differential.
What’s in the box: One Genuine Mazda driveshaft retaining snap ring / C-clip, part number G054-25-421.
Installation notes: Raise and support the vehicle safely and remove the driveshaft according to the applicable Mazda workshop procedure. Remove the old clip and inspect the driveshaft groove and splines. Fit the new clip evenly into its groove, lightly lubricate the splines as specified and insert the driveshaft carefully through the differential oil seal. Push the shaft fully inward until the clip engages, then confirm secure retention before completing reassembly.
| Make | Model | Sub Variant | Chassis / Code | Years | Power (PS) | Engine Codes | Fuel | Transmission | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mazda | MX-5 | Mk3 / Mk3.5 / Mk3.75 NC – Soft Top / PRHT – 1.8 / 2.0 / 2.0 Sport | NC18 / NCEC | 2005–2015 | 126–160 | L8-DE / LF-VE | Petrol | Manual / Automatic | Rear driveshaft-to-differential retaining clip; fits left or right; two required per vehicle; sold individually |
| Mazda | MX-5 / RF | Mk4 ND1 / ND2 / ND3 – 1.5 / 2.0 | ND2E / ND6E | 2015–Present | Varies by model and market | SKYACTIV-G 1.5 / 2.0 | Petrol | Manual / Automatic | Rear driveshaft-to-differential retaining clip; fits left or right; two required per vehicle; sold individually |
| Vehicle Manufacturer | OEM Reference Number |
|---|---|
| Mazda | G054-25-421 |
| Mazda | G005-25-710A |