Parts for your 1999 Subaru Forester-Universal joints

1999 Subaru Forester universal joints (U-joints)

Universal joints are relevant and fitted to the 1999 Subaru Forester. Technical documentation confirms this: the Subaru Factory Service Manual for the SF-series Forester (1997–2002) includes a Propeller Shaft section detailing universal joint inspection, genuine Subaru parts catalogues show the tailshaft/propeller shaft with front and rear U-joints and a centre carrier bearing, and independent manuals such as the Haynes Subaru Forester (1998–2008) guide cover U-joint checks and tailshaft service. These sources establish that the Forester’s rear propeller shaft uses U-joints, while the front and rear wheel drive shafts use CV joints.

On a 1999 Forester, the universal joints sit at either end of the propeller shaft, linking the transmission’s output to the rear differential. Their job is to let the tailshaft change angle as the body and driveline move, all while sending torque smoothly to the back wheels. This keeps the AWD system happy under acceleration, cruising and over rough Kiwi and Aussie roads.

From the factory, these U-joints are sealed and typically non-greaseable. That means there’s no routine greasing on service—inspection is the key. During scheduled servicing, a good check involves rotating and articulating the shaft by hand (with the vehicle safely raised) and feeling for any notchiness, binding or free play at each cross. The caps should be snug with no red dust or slung grease, the yokes should be crack-free, and the centre carrier bearing rubber should be intact. Fasteners at the flanges must be tight and correctly torqued as per the Subaru service manual.

Typical warning signs include:

• A dull clunk when taking off or shifting on and off throttle
• Vibration or shudder at road speeds, especially 60–100 km/h
• Chirping, squeaking or a rhythmic ticking that changes with speed

If wear is found, the tailshaft can be replaced as a complete assembly (the OEM approach on many Subarus with staked-in joints), or rebuilt by a driveline specialist with quality circlip-type U-joints and, if needed, a new carrier bearing. Proper phasing of the yokes and dynamic balancing are important to avoid new vibrations. Mark the flanges before removal, keep everything clean, fit new self-locking hardware where specified, and tighten to the factory torque specs. A short test drive afterwards will confirm there’s no vibration under load or on overrun.

Leaving a flogged U-joint to get worse can damage the tailshaft, diff or gearbox, so sorting it early is a smart, budget-friendly move.

FAQs

Does a 1999 Subaru Forester use universal joints or CVs in the driveline?

The 1999 Forester uses universal joints in the propeller (tail) shaft between the transmission and the rear differential. The wheel drive shafts are constant-velocity (CV) axles. So it’s U-joints in the tailshaft, CVs at the wheels.

How long do the U-joints typically last on a 1999 Forester?

With sealed, non-greaseable joints, many Foresters see well over 200,000 km before attention is needed. Life depends on load, road conditions, and contamination. Regular inspection during servicing helps catch wear early, before vibration or clunks set in.

Can the original U-joints be greased or serviced, or do they need replacing?

The factory joints are sealed and generally don’t have grease nipples. If they’re worn or binding, replacement is the go. Some owners fit rebuildable, clip-retained U-joints via a driveline specialist, or replace the tailshaft as a complete assembly—both are valid approaches when done correctly.