Parts for your 2016 Subaru Outback-Centre bearing

Centre Bearing and Its Relevance on the 2016 Subaru Outback

When it comes to the 2016 Subaru Outback, one common question that pops up among owners and enthusiasts is whether the vehicle features a centre bearing. To clear things up, after consulting technical resources and factory service manuals, it becomes apparent that the 2016 Subaru Outback does not use a centre bearing in its drivetrain setup. This mainly comes down to the vehicle's unique design and Subaru's approach to all-wheel drive systems.

So why doesn't the 2016 Subaru Outback have a centre bearing? It essentially boils down to the car's symmetrical all-wheel drive layout and its driveline architecture. Instead of employing a long driveshaft system that requires support, like you might see in some rear-wheel drive or extended front-wheel drive vehicles, the Outback uses a relatively compact and direct driveshaft configuration. Because of this, there's no need for an intermediate support bearing to carry or stabilise the shaft mid-way. The driveshaft components are designed to fit optimally within the chassis, minimising vibration and wear without relying on a centre bearing.

In vehicles where centre bearings are used, they serve an important role supporting a two-piece driveshaft, often seen in larger trucks, SUVs, or long-wheelbase vehicles. The centre bearing acts as a crucial support point to reduce flexing, vibrations and premature wear of driveshaft components, especially when carrying extended loads or absorbing road shock. However, the Outback's relatively short, direct driveshaft alignment eliminates the need for this extra support.

Knowing this means Subaru Outback owners don't have to worry about maintaining or replacing a centre bearing because there simply isn't one fitted. Instead, the focus for maintenance goes to other parts of the drivetrain such as the CV joints, drive axles, differential fluid, and transfer case components. These elements are fundamental to keeping the symmetrical AWD functioning smoothly and reliably.

For those curious about parts that may need attention under the driveshaft and axle area, it's always a smart move to stick to the manufacturer's service intervals for differential oil changes and to keep an eye (and ear) out for any unusual noises, vibrations, or handling quirks that could point to worn CV joints or bearings closer to the wheels. But there's no centre bearing to check, grease, or replace.

In short, the absence of a centre bearing on the 2016 Subaru Outback is simply due to the design of the AWD system and the compact driveshaft setup that doesn't require mid-shaft support. This design choice helps Subaru keep the drivetrain lighter and less complex, while still providing excellent torque distribution and traction on all types of terrain.

Owners of 2016 Subaru Outbacks should focus their servicing attention on the components Subaru does recommend, keeping fluids fresh and boots intact, rather than hunting for a part the vehicle does not use. This makes servicing the drivetrain a little more straightforward and less costly in terms of parts and labour.