Parts for your 2015 Subaru Impreza-Driveshafts

Understanding Driveshafts on the 2015 Subaru Impreza

The 2015 Subaru Impreza is a popular choice among Aussies who want a reliable, versatile car with all-wheel drive capabilities. One common question that pops up when looking at the Impreza's drivetrain is whether the vehicle actually uses driveshafts, and if so, what their role is and how to maintain them properly.

Let's first clarify what a driveshaft is and if the 2015 Subaru Impreza actually has one. Driveshafts are mechanical components that transfer torque from the engine and transmission to the wheels, allowing the car to move. In vehicles with rear-wheel drive, or those with separate front and rear axles like 4WDs and many AWDs, driveshafts are essential components. They typically look like long, rotating tubes that connect parts of the drivetrain across the length of the vehicle.

Now, regarding the 2015 Subaru Impreza, it comes standard with Subaru's renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system. This system features a boxer engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a manual gearbox. Instead of a single long driveshaft that sends power to the rear wheels (as in traditional RWD or 4WD setups), the Impreza uses a more compact design featuring front driveshafts and a shorter shaft to the rear differential.

In this layout, the transmission outputs power to a centre differential, which then distributes torque between the front and rear axles. The front wheels are driven by short axles linked directly to the transaxle, while the rear wheels get power through a shorter driveshaft running from the centre differential to the rear differential. So driveshafts are indeed used, but they are much shorter compared to traditional rear-wheel-drive vehicles or body-on-frame 4WDs.

This means that although the 2015 Subaru Impreza does utilise driveshafts, they exist primarily as front and rear half-shafts (also called CV axles) connecting the transmission or differential to the wheels rather than a long, central driveshaft running underneath the vehicle as seen in big 4WDs or trucks.

Understanding the purpose of these driveshafts is important for maintaining the car's AWD capabilities and ensuring smooth driving performance. The driveshafts distribute power evenly to provide maximum traction on slippery or uneven surfaces, which is what gives Subaru Imprezas their well-earned reputation for handling tough Australian conditions.

Like any mechanical component, driveshafts and their associated parts require regular inspection and maintenance to keep everything running smoothly. The 2015 Subaru Impreza's driveshafts contain CV (constant velocity) joints at either end. These joints allow the axles to transmit power efficiently while accommodating suspension movement and steering angles.

Over time, the protective rubber boots covering the CV joints can wear out or tear. When this happens, dirt and moisture can get inside, leading to joint wear and eventual failure. Symptoms of failing CV joints on an Impreza include clicking noises during sharp cornering, vibrations during acceleration, or grease splattered around the inside of the wheel arch.

Routine servicing of the 2015 Subaru Impreza should therefore include checking the condition of the driveshaft boots and joints. Mechanics will inspect for cracks, tears, or grease leaks and recommend replacement if necessary. If a CV joint is damaged, it's best not to ignore it, as driving with a worn joint can cause further damage and may leave you stranded.

When replacing driveshafts or their components, it's crucial to use genuine or high-quality aftermarket parts designed for the Impreza. These parts are engineered to handle the unique torque and speed demands of Subaru's AWD system. Proper installation, including careful lubrication and securing of components, ensures long service life and maintains the car's safety and performance.

Maintaining driveshafts also means keeping an eye on other drivetrain elements such as the centre differential and rear differential oils. Subaru recommends regular oil changes in these components as part of the vehicle's service schedule to keep everything lubricated and running cool under varying loads.

For everyday drivers, sticking to the recommended service interval and having a reputable Subaru mechanic inspect the driveshafts during routine checks helps avoid unexpected repairs. Driveshaft problems tend to worsen suddenly, so catching early warning signs can save time and money down the track.

All up, driveshafts might not be the most glamorous part of the 2015 Subaru Impreza, but they are absolutely essential to the car's AWD system and performance. Knowing they're there, how they work, and how to look after them means Impreza owners can enjoy the car's excellent AWD grip and reliability for years to come on Aussie roads and beyond.