Parts for your 2013 Subaru Xv-Centre bearing

2013 Subaru XV centre-bearing: what it is, whether it’s fitted, and how to look after it

Based on Subaru’s factory service information for the 2012–2016 Impreza/XV platform (Driveline & Axle – Propeller Shaft section) and Subaru’s genuine parts catalogues for MY2013 XV (GP series), the 2013 Subaru XV is built with a two‑piece propeller shaft (tailshaft) and a centre support bearing. Subaru literature often calls it the propeller shaft centre support or support-bearing. So yes—on the 2013 XV, a centre-bearing is relevant and fitted.

On this model, the centre-bearing sits mid‑way along the two‑piece tailshaft, bolted to the body tunnel. Its job is to support the rotating shaft, keep it aligned under load, and isolate vibration with a rubber mount. That combo delivers smooth take‑offs and steady highway manners while protecting the gearbox output and rear diff from shock loads. Because the centre-bearing is sealed for life, there’s no greasing point, servicing is about inspection and replacement when wear sets in.

Good workshops include a quick tailshaft check at routine services (every 12,500–15,000 km is common in Aus/NZ schedules). For the centre-bearing they’ll look for cracked rubber in the carrier, roughness when the shaft is rotated by hand, excess play, or signs of the bearing running hot. It’s also smart to check the mounting bolts and heat shields after any exhaust work, plus inspect the universal joints and rear diff pinion area while you’re there.

Typical warning signs include:

• Driveline vibration that’s speed‑related (usually 40–80 km/h) and worse under load
• A dull rumble or drone from the centre tunnel
• A thump on take‑off or when shifting between Drive and Reverse

If the bearing or carrier is shot, the fix is to drop the tailshaft. Subaru often supplies the propeller shaft as an assembly, and many dealers replace the whole unit. Quality aftermarket centre support bearings and carriers are available for the XV if you prefer a component repair, but correct pressing, alignment, and rebalancing practices are critical to avoid new vibrations. Expect roughly 1.5–2.5 hours of workshop time depending on equipment and whether heat shields and exhaust sections need to come off. Always mark flange orientation before removal, use new self‑locking hardware where specified, and torque fasteners to spec on reinstallation.

Handled early, a tired centre-bearing is a straightforward job that restores the XV’s trademark smooth, quiet AWD feel—and helps protect more expensive bits down the line.

Technical sources referenced: Subaru Impreza/XV (GP/GJ) Service Manual 2012–2016, Driveline & Axle – Propeller Shaft, Subaru Genuine Parts Catalogue, MY2013 XV (GP series), Propeller Shaft group, Subaru technical service information for centre support bearing assembly.

Popular questions about 2013 Subaru XV centre-bearing

Does the 2013 Subaru XV actually have a centre-bearing?
Yes. The XV (GP series) uses a two‑piece propeller shaft with a centre support bearing mounted to the body tunnel, as specified in Subaru’s service and parts documentation.

What symptoms point to a failing centre-bearing on a 2013 XV?
Look for speed‑related vibration, a low drone from the centre of the car, and a thump on take‑off. Visual checks may show cracked carrier rubber or excessive shaft movement at the support.

Can the centre-bearing be replaced on its own, or is a whole tailshaft needed?
Dealers often supply the complete shaft assembly, but quality aftermarket centre support bearings/carriers are available. If replacing just the bearing, correct pressing, alignment, and balancing practices are essential.