Parts for your 2009 Subaru Exiga-Driveshafts

2009 Subaru Exiga driveshafts

Based on the Subaru Exiga YA-series Factory Service Manual (Driveline & Axle and Propeller Shaft sections) and the Subaru Electronic Parts Catalogue for 2009 models, the Exiga uses driveshafts. All variants have front CV driveshafts (half-shafts) from the transaxle to the front hubs. All-wheel drive (Symmetrical AWD) models also run a propeller shaft to the rear differential, while front-wheel drive variants omit the rear prop shaft. So, driveshafts are very much relevant on a 2009 Subaru Exiga.

On a 2009 Exiga, the driveshafts do the hard yakka of getting engine torque to the wheels while allowing the suspension to move and the front wheels to steer. Up front, constant-velocity (CV) joints keep things smooth on lock and over bumps. On AWD versions, the propeller shaft sends power down the centre of the car to the rear diff, with a centre support bearing and uni joints keeping it all in line.

For day-to-day servicing, a quick look at the CV boots is gold. Any splits, perishing, or grease flung around the inside of a wheel or underbody means it’s time for action. Typical signs of trouble are clicking on tight low-speed turns, shudder on take-off, vibration at highway speeds, or a thump when going on/off throttle (often the prop shaft centre bearing or a worn uni joint on AWD cars).

Owners can expect original CV shafts to last well past 100,000 km, but Aussie and Kiwi conditions—coastal salt, gravel roads, and stop-start commutes—can shorten that. If a boot is torn but the joint’s still quiet, a quality boot kit and fresh CV grease can save the shaft. If there’s clicking or blueing/pitting in the joint, replace the shaft. Many techs swap front shafts as a pair to keep driveline feel even.

• Torque the axle nut to spec and stake it correctly to protect the hub and bearing.
• On AWD, inspect the prop shaft’s centre bearing and uni joints, replace the assembly if there’s play, roughness or a sagging support.
• Refit shafts on their original sides if reusing, and align any factory balance marks on prop shafts to prevent vibration.

Quality matters. Genuine or reputable aftermarket shafts and boots, correct moly CV grease, and fresh seals where required will keep the Exiga’s driveline quiet and reliable for many more kilometres.

Popular question: How can someone tell if a driveshaft or CV joint is failing on a 2009 Exiga?

Look for clicking while turning at low speed, grease spray around a wheel or subframe, vibration under acceleration, or a hum that rises with road speed. On AWD cars, a chirp or thump on throttle changes can point to a tired prop shaft centre bearing or uni joint.

Popular question: Is it safe to drive with a torn CV boot on a 2009 Exiga?

Not for long. Once the boot splits, grease escapes and grit rushes in. A joint that could be saved with a boot kit can quickly turn noisy and require a full shaft replacement. Best bet is to repair as soon as it’s spotted.

Popular question: Does a front-wheel drive Exiga have a driveshaft?

Yes—two front CV driveshafts. It just doesn’t have the long propeller shaft to the rear diff. If there’s no shaft running down the tunnel and no rear diff housing, it’s FWD. The Vehicle ID plate and build spec will also confirm it.