Parts for your 2013 Subaru Exiga-Centre bearing

2013 Subaru Exiga centre bearing — what it is and when it matters

Based on Subaru’s factory service information for the YA-series Exiga (Propeller Shaft section) and the Subaru global electronic parts catalogue (FAST), the 2013 Subaru Exiga equipped with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive runs a two-piece tailshaft with a centre support bearing. That carrier bearing is mounted mid-shaft to support and steady the propeller shaft between the transmission and rear diff. Note: some Japan‑market front‑wheel‑drive Exiga variants don’t have a tailshaft at all, so there’s no centre bearing on those models. Australia and New Zealand deliveries were AWD, so a centre bearing applies.

The centre bearing’s job is simple but critical: it carries the tailshaft in the middle, keeps angles in check, and dampens vibration so the cabin stays smooth. It helps the AWD system transfer torque cleanly, protecting the transmission output, universal joints, and rear differential from shock and misalignment.

On the Exiga, the centre bearing is a sealed unit held in a rubber mount. Subaru typically supplies it as part of the complete propeller shaft assembly rather than as a standalone genuine part, which is why many workshops replace the whole tailshaft when the bearing is noisy or the rubber support perishes. Quality aftermarket carrier bearings do exist, and a driveline shop can press the old bearing off and fit a new one if the shaft and uni joints are otherwise sound.

What owners should look and listen for:

• Droning or humming that rises with road speed, especially on light throttle or overrun
• Shudder or vibration under load, felt through the floor
• Clunks on take‑off if the rubber support is torn and the shaft sags

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the centre bearing bracket and rubber support, check shaft free play, and look for sling marks from failed seals. If replacement is needed, mark shaft orientation before removal to maintain balance, renew self‑locking hardware, and have tailshaft angles checked on refit. Aftermarket bearing-only repairs should be done by a driveline specialist with a press and balancing gear, a complete OE-style shaft swap is straightforward but usually costs more.

With a healthy centre bearing, the Exiga’s AWD stays quiet, refined, and ready for long kilometres without fuss.

FAQs

Does a 2013 Subaru Exiga have a centre bearing?
AWD models do. They use a two‑piece tailshaft with a mid‑mounted carrier bearing. FWD Japan‑market versions don’t, because there’s no tailshaft. If the car is an Australian or New Zealand delivery, it’s AWD and will have one.

Can just the centre bearing be replaced, or is a full tailshaft needed?
Subaru generally supplies the centre bearing as part of the complete propeller shaft assembly. However, reputable aftermarket bearings are available, a driveline shop can press out the old unit and fit a new one if the shaft and uni joints are good.

What are the signs the centre bearing is failing?
A speed‑related drone, vibration under acceleration, or a thump on take‑off. Visual checks may show a torn rubber support or excessive shaft movement at the bracket.