Parts for your 2011 Subaru Impreza-Centre bearing

2011 Subaru Impreza centre-bearing: what it does and how to look after it

Based on Subaru’s Factory Service Manual for the GE/GH/GR Impreza (Propeller Shaft section) and the Subaru Parts Catalogue (Group 27 – Propeller Shaft), the 2011 Subaru Impreza with Symmetrical AWD uses a two-piece propeller shaft fitted with a centre support bearing (often called a centre-bearing or carrier bearing). These sources also note the OEM centre-bearing is integral to the prop shaft assembly and, as per Subaru guidance, is not serviced separately, the recommended repair for a failed bearing is replacement of the complete propeller shaft assembly.

The centre-bearing supports the middle of the two-piece tailshaft, keeping the shaft aligned under load and at speed. Its rubber isolator helps soak up drivetrain movement and road harshness, cutting down vibration and driveline noise. On an Impreza that pulls daily duties or cops the occasional spirited run, that bearing quietly keeps everything spinning true between the gearbox and rear diff.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the centre-bearing and bracket:

• Look for torn or perished rubber in the support, or signs the bearing has started to sag.
• Check for speed-dependent vibration, a low rumble, or a thump on take-off — classic failure symptoms.
• Inspect prop shaft universal joints and engine/gearbox mounts, as issues there can overwork the bearing.

When replacement’s due, Subaru literature advises removing the prop shaft as an assembly. Mark the flanges/yokes before removal to maintain balance, and refit the bracket so the bearing sits neutral (no pre-load) before torquing fasteners to the values in the service manual. New self-locking hardware is recommended. Aftermarket centre-bearing kits exist, but many workshops stick with the OEM approach and replace the whole shaft to ensure correct balance and longevity.

How long do they last? Plenty of Aussie and Kiwi owners see well over 150,000 km, but hard launches, lifted suspension, or tired mounts can bring on early wear. If the Impreza starts vibrating under load or humming through the floor, get the tailshaft checked — leaving a failing centre-bearing too long can take out the uni joints or flog out mounts.

Quick care tips:

• Keep an ear out for new noises after tyre, suspension, or mount changes.
• If removing the shaft, keep halves aligned as found to preserve balance.
• Use quality parts and follow the Subaru FSM procedures for a drama-free fix.

Does a 2011 Subaru Impreza have a centre-bearing?

Yes. The AWD Impreza of this era runs a two-piece propeller shaft with a centre support bearing. This is documented in the Subaru Factory Service Manual (Propeller Shaft) and reflected in the OEM parts catalogue.

Can the centre-bearing be replaced on its own?

Subaru’s official guidance is to replace the complete propeller shaft if the centre-bearing fails, as the bearing is integral and the assembly is factory balanced. Some aftermarket options exist to replace just the bearing, but correct fitment and balance are critical, so many workshops prefer the full assembly.

What are the common signs of a worn centre-bearing on an Impreza?

Look for a shudder on take-off, a speed-related vibration, a low rumble through the floor, or a visible split/sag in the bearing’s rubber support. These symptoms warrant inspection of the tailshaft, bearing, and mounts.