Parts for your 2016 Subaru Forester-Driveshafts

2016 Subaru Forester driveshafts — what they do and how to look after them

Driveshafts are absolutely fitted to the 2016 Subaru Forester. Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive uses a two-piece propeller shaft (driveshaft) running from the transmission to the rear differential, plus four CV halfshafts at the wheels. This is documented in the Subaru Forester (SJ) Service Manual driveline sections (Propeller Shaft and Front/Rear Axle), and reflected in the Subaru parts catalogue for MY2016, which lists the propeller shaft assembly and front/rear drive shafts for all AWD variants, including 2.5i and 2.0XT.

On this model, the prop shaft sends torque to the rear diff, while each CV axle delivers power to a wheel and allows for suspension movement and steering lock. Together they keep traction balanced on tarmac, gravel, and wet clay backroads — exactly what Aussie and Kiwi Foresters are known for.

There’s no fixed replacement interval for driveshafts, they’re inspected during regular services. A good workshop will check CV boots for splits or grease fling, feel for play at the joints, and look over the prop shaft’s centre bearing and joints for vibration or clunks. Tell-tales that need attention include clicking on tight turns, a shudder on take-off, vibration between 80–110 km/h, or grease sprayed underbody near a boot.

When repair time comes, quality matters. CV axles can often be rebooted if caught early, once a joint is noisy, replacement is the go. The propeller shaft on many SJ Foresters is a sealed assembly, so it’s typically replaced as a unit if the joints or centre bearing fail. Balancing and alignment marks are important during removal/refit to avoid new vibrations. Always use new axle nuts, seals, and circlips, and follow the Subaru Service Manual for torque specs and procedures.

For owners who tow, tour corrugations, or have a lift kit, increase inspection frequency — boots and joints cop extra angles and heat. After deep water crossings, it’s smart to have the driveline checked for water ingress. As part of routine servicing (every 10,000–15,000 km or annually, depending on schedule), a thorough driveline once-over will keep the Forester smooth, quiet, and ready for the next road trip.

• Watch for: clicks on turns, vibration under load, grease fling, driveline clunks
• Service tips: keep boots intact, mark flanges before removal, use OEM-quality parts, verify torque

Popular questions about 2016 Subaru Forester driveshafts

Does a 2016 Subaru Forester have a driveshaft?
Yes. It has a two-piece propeller shaft to the rear differential and four CV halfshafts at the wheels. This layout is specified in the Subaru Forester (SJ) Service Manual driveline sections and the MY2016 Subaru parts catalogue.

How long do the CV joints and prop shaft typically last?
Many last well beyond 150,000 km if the boots stay sealed and the vehicle isn’t abused. Off-road use, big torque loads, or torn boots can shorten lifespan. Regular inspections at service help catch early wear before it becomes a vibration or clicking noise.

Can the propeller shaft be repaired, or does it need full replacement?
On most SJ Foresters, the prop shaft is a sealed assembly and is usually replaced complete if the centre bearing or joints fail. CV axles can often be rebooted or replaced individually, depending on wear and condition.