Parts for your 2013 Subaru Legacy-Driveshafts

2013 Subaru Legacy driveshafts — what they do and how to look after them

Yes, driveshafts are absolutely used on the 2013 Subaru Legacy (called Liberty in Australia). Technical documentation confirms it: the Subaru Factory Service Manual for BR/BM models lists both “Front Drive Shafts (CV shafts)” and a two‑piece “Propeller Shaft” to the rear differential as part of Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD layout. The Subaru Electronic Parts Catalogue and Subaru Technical Information System also show these assemblies for 2013 models, covering CVT and manual variants. So, driveshafts are relevant to every AWD Legacy/Liberty of this year.

On this car, there are two key assemblies doing the heavy lifting. The front CV driveshafts take power from the transaxle to the front wheels. A separate two‑piece propeller shaft (often called the tailshaft) runs down the centre of the car, sending torque to the rear differential. At the back, short rear axle shafts link the diff to the rear hubs. Together, they keep traction balanced across all four tyres and deliver the smooth, planted feel Subarus are known for.

As part of regular servicing, driveshaft care is straightforward: inspect, clean, and act early. CV boots should be checked at each service interval (typically every 10,000–15,000 km or annually). Any split boot or flung grease means the joint can run dry and wear fast. Subaru’s OE propeller shaft uses non‑serviceable staked U‑joints, if there’s play or binding, the correct fix is replacement of the shaft assembly. The centre support bearing can age and drone, check its rubber mount for sagging or cracks.

• Common signs to watch for:
  • Clicking on turns: usually a front outer CV joint.
  • Shudder or vibration under load: worn prop shaft U‑joint or centre bearing.
  • Clunk on take‑off: excessive driveline play.
  • Grease spray inside the wheel arch: torn CV boot.

When replacing, use quality shafts, renew axle nuts and seals as specified, and torque everything to Subaru specs. Keep shaft phasing and balance marks aligned, and set the prop shaft centre bearing square so it doesn’t preload. After the job, a short road test to check for vibration and leaks is good practice. Avoid extended driving with a failing driveshaft, on AWD Subarus, neglect can escalate to diff or transmission damage—and no one needs that bill.

Popular questions about 2013 Subaru Legacy driveshafts

What’s the typical lifespan of CV shafts and the prop shaft?
With city and motorway use, CV shafts often see well over 150,000 km if boots stay intact. The propeller shaft and centre bearing can last 200,000 km or more, but age, heat, and rough roads can shorten that. Regular inspections make the biggest difference.

Is vibration at 80–100 km/h likely a driveshaft issue?
It can be. A worn prop shaft U‑joint or a tired centre bearing often shows up as a speed‑related vibration. Tyre balance, wheel bearings, and engine mounts should also be checked to rule out other causes.

Can the car be driven with a torn CV boot?
It’s risky. Once grease escapes and water enters, the joint wears quickly and can fail. If a boot is only just split, a prompt boot replacement may save the joint, if there’s noise or play, replace the whole shaft.