A vehicle drive system comprises a first shaft and a second shaft that includes an opening configured to receive the first shaft. A shaft retention apparatus comprises a support component extending axially and along the outer contour of the outer surface of the first shaft and the outer surface of the second shaft, to bridge the two shafts at an intersection thereof. A first clip portion extends from the support component and engages a groove in the outer surface of first shaft and a second axially spaced clip portion extends from the support component and engages a groove in the outer surface of the second shaft, preventing prevent axial movement therebetween.