Parts for your 2012 Subaru Exiga-Centre bearing

2012 Subaru Exiga centre-bearing

Based on technical references, the 2012 Subaru Exiga (YA-series) with Symmetrical AWD uses a two-piece propeller shaft with a centre support bearing (often called a carrier bearing). This layout is identified in the Subaru factory service manual for the Exiga’s propeller shaft section and reflected in the Subaru FAST parts catalogue for YA-chassis vehicles, which lists a centre support bearing and bracket within the propeller shaft group. Aftermarket catalogues for the Exiga YA also list replacement centre bearings, further confirming fitment.

On the 2012 Exiga, the centre-bearing sits mid-way along the prop shaft tunnel, supporting the two-piece shaft, keeping it running true, and soaking up driveline vibrations. Its job is simple but vital: it holds the shaft on-centre under load so the rear diff still gets smooth, steady drive, even when the engine is twisting on its mounts or the road gets a bit rough. When the bearing or its rubber mount ages, the Exiga can start to hum or drone at certain speeds, there may be a shudder on take-off, or a clunk as the drive loads and unloads.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to give the centre-bearing a look whenever the car’s on a hoist—no special schedule needed. A quick check involves:

• Inspecting the rubber support for cracks, tearing or separation.
• Feeling for roughness or play in the bearing by hand (shaft safely supported).
• Checking adjacent bits like the prop shaft universal joints and flange bolts.

If replacement’s on the cards, note that Subaru often supplies the centre-bearing as part of the complete propeller shaft assembly. Many workshops go this route for reliability and balance. Quality aftermarket centre-bearings are available separately, if you go that way, have a driveline specialist press the bearing, set the dust seals correctly and check balance. Always mark the shaft halves before separation so it goes back in the same orientation, use new self-locking hardware where specified, and torque to the factory figures in the Exiga service manual.

Driving with a crook centre-bearing isn’t ideal. Besides being noisy, it can accelerate wear in the uni joints and stress the gearbox output and diff pinion bearings. Get onto it early and it’s usually a straightforward job—typically a couple of hours labour plus parts. For cars doing family and touring duties across Australia and New Zealand, keeping that centre-bearing healthy pays off in a smoother, quieter Exiga with fewer driveline dramas down the track.

Does a 2012 Subaru Exiga definitely have a centre-bearing?

Yes—AWD Exiga models use a two-piece prop shaft with a centre support bearing. Some JDM FWD variants exist, those won’t have a rear prop shaft or centre-bearing. Most NZ and Australian-delivered or imported Exigas are AWD.

Can the centre-bearing be replaced on its own, or do I need a whole prop shaft?

Subaru commonly supplies the complete shaft, but quality aftermarket centre-bearings are available. A driveline specialist can press the new bearing and check balance. If the uni joints are worn or there’s rust/pitting on the journal, a complete shaft may be the better fix.

What are the signs my Exiga’s centre-bearing is on the way out?

Look for a low-speed shudder on take-off, a mid-speed drone or vibration that changes with throttle, and visible tearing of the rubber support. A “clunk” when shifting between reverse and drive can also point to excess play at the bearing or uni joints.