Parts for your 2014 Subaru Outback-Cv joint

2014 Subaru Outback CV joint — what it does, where it is, and how to look after it

Based on technical references including the Subaru Factory Service Manual for 2010–2014 Outback/Legacy (Drive Shaft/Front & Rear Axle sections), Subaru’s OEM parts catalogue, and mainstream service guides such as the Haynes manual for this generation, the 2014 Subaru Outback is fitted with constant velocity (CV) joints on both the front and rear driveshafts. The platform uses an outer Rzeppa-type CV joint and an inner double-offset (DOJ) joint per shaft, which is standard practice on Subaru’s AWD layouts of this era.

The CV joint’s job is simple but vital: it transmits torque smoothly while the wheels steer and the suspension moves, so the Outback can put power down cleanly on bitumen, gravel or wet grass. Without well-greased, sealed CVs, steering would bind, vibration would creep in, and the AWD system wouldn’t feel nearly as sure-footed.

• Front: two driveshafts, each with an inner DOJ (gearbox side) and outer Rzeppa (wheel side).
• Rear: two half-shafts from the rear differential to the hubs, each with inner and outer CV joints.

CV joints are sealed by rubber boots filled with high-moly grease. There’s no fixed replacement interval, instead, regular inspection during routine servicing is the go. If the boot splits or a clamp loosens, grease can sling out and water or grit can get in, which rapidly wears the joint.

• Clicking or ticking on tight, low-speed turns: often the outer joint.
• Shudder on take-off or vibration under load: commonly the inner joint.
• Grease sprayed around the wheel arch or near the subframe: torn boot or loose clamp.

Prompt boot replacement can save a perfectly good joint if caught early. If the joint has run noisy or gritty, a quality replacement shaft or joint assembly is the smarter option. Technicians should use the specified Subaru grease type for the joint, fit new clamps, and torque the axle nut and related fasteners to factory specs. It’s good practice to support the hub/knuckle during disassembly so the shaft doesn’t over-extend the joint, and to check for any weep at axle seals on reassembly.

For Australian and New Zealand conditions—beach runs, corrugations, winter road grime—regular underbody rinses and a quick look at the boots each service help CVs last for years. Many Outbacks run well past high kilometres with original joints when the boots stay intact.

Popular questions

Does the 2014 Subaru Outback have CV joints at the rear as well as the front?

Yes. Being full-time AWD, the Outback uses CV joints on all four half-shafts. Each rear shaft has an inner joint at the differential and an outer joint at the hub, mirroring the front layout.

How long do CV joints and boots usually last on a 2014 Outback?

There’s no set lifespan. With intact boots and regular inspections, many go 150,000 km or more. Boots can age from heat, road debris, or coastal exposure, so timely boot replacement is key to preserving the joint.

Is it okay to keep driving with a clicking CV joint?

Short trips may be possible, but it’s risky. A worn joint can accelerate wear, lose grease, or in the worst case fail under load. It’s best to schedule inspection and repair sooner rather than later to protect the hub bearings and driveline.