Parts for your 2000 Subaru Forester-Driveshafts

2000 Subaru Forester Driveshafts: What They Do and How to Look After Them

Driveshafts are absolutely relevant and fitted to the 2000 Subaru Forester. Technical documentation backs this up: the Subaru Forester MY2000 Factory Service Manual (Driveline/Axle and Propeller Shaft sections) details front driveshafts (CV axles), a two-piece propeller shaft to the rear differential, and rear driveshafts. The Subaru Electronic Parts Catalogue for the SF-series Forester lists these components and their service parts, and general repair procedures are also covered in workshop guides such as the Haynes manual for Subaru Forester/Legacy of the era. So yes—this Forester uses multiple driveshafts as part of its Symmetrical AWD system.

On a 2000 Forester, the front driveshafts (CV axles) deliver torque from the transaxle to the front wheels, the propeller shaft sends drive down the centre to the rear differential, and the rear driveshafts feed the rear wheels. Together, they keep traction balanced and the car feeling planted on wet roads, gravel, or when heading out of town for a long weekend.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to eyeball the CV boots for splits and grease fling, listen for clicking on full lock, and feel for shudders under load. A torn boot can send a good joint downhill fast, catching it early with a new boot and proper moly CV grease can save heaps. The prop shaft’s centre bearing and its joints should be checked for play and vibration—if there’s a droning or a shudder at highway speeds, that’s a clue. Many Subaru prop shafts of this vintage have non-serviceable staked U-joints, if they’re worn, a quality replacement shaft or specialist rebuild is the go.

When replacement time comes, use decent-quality shafts with correct ABS tone ring spec for the model year, renew axle seals if they’re weeping, and always torque the axle nuts to the factory spec (check the service manual). Mark the prop shaft flanges so it goes back in the same orientation, and if the centre bearing rubber looks tired, do it once, do it right.

• Watch for: clicking on turns, clunks on take-off, vibration at 60–100 km/h, grease sprayed around a wheel arch or underbody.
• Service tips: inspect CV boots every service, keep all four tyres closely matched in size and wear to protect the AWD and driveline, and avoid aggressive jack points that stress joints at full droop.

Tyre choice matters with AWD. Mismatched rolling diameters can load up the centre diff and driveshafts. If replacing tyres, aim for a matched set or keep circumference differences minimal per Subaru guidance.

Popular questions about 2000 Subaru Forester driveshafts

How can someone tell if a front CV driveshaft is failing on a 2000 Forester?
Typical signs include a rhythmic clicking or tapping when turning, especially under light throttle, and grease splatter from a split CV boot. Under acceleration, a worn inner CV joint can cause a wobble or shudder. If the issue is at the rear or through the floor, a vibration that changes with speed may point to the prop shaft or centre bearing.

If any of these show up, get it inspected soon. A simple boot replacement can prevent a full shaft replacement if caught early.

Do all four tyres need to match when working on driveshaft issues?
On Subaru AWD, keeping tyre circumferences closely matched is important. Big differences in tread depth or size can cause binding in the centre diff and extra stress on driveshafts. If one tyre is replaced, many shops in Australia and New Zealand recommend replacing all four, or shaving a new tyre to match the others’ rolling diameter.

Can the 2000 Forester’s propeller shaft U-joints be serviced?
Many SF Forester prop shafts use staked, non-greasable U-joints. That means they’re not designed for easy service. If there’s play or roughness, the usual fix is a complete replacement shaft or a specialist rebuild. While it’s a bit more cost than a simple joint, it restores smoothness and reliability.