Parts for your 2017 Subaru Exiga-Centre bearing

Centre-Bearing on the 2017 Subaru Exiga: What You Need to Know

When it comes to the 2017 Subaru Exiga and whether it uses a centre-bearing, it's important to understand the drivetrain setup of this vehicle. The Subaru Exiga is well-known for its symmetrical all-wheel-drive system combined with a horizontally opposed Boxer engine. This design influences the types of drivetrain components the vehicle uses, making the question of a centre-bearing quite relevant.

After referencing technical sources and Subaru's own service manuals, it turns out that the 2017 Subaru Exiga does not have a traditional centre-bearing in its drivetrain. The reason is tied directly to the way the powertrain is laid out and how the vehicle's driveshaft system operates.

In many vehicles, especially those with a long driveshaft running from the transmission to the rear differential, a centre-bearing is used to support the driveshaft at the midpoint. This bearing helps in reducing vibrations and preventing driveshaft sagging which can cause premature wear or even damage. However, the Subaru Exiga utilises a compact all-wheel-drive layout with a shorter driveshaft design that eliminates the need for a separate centre support bearing.

More specifically, the 2017 Subaru Exiga uses a transaxle setup where the transmission and front differential are combined in one unit up front, and the power to the rear wheels is sent through a relatively short driveshaft that is supported by the components of the differential system itself. Because the driveline dimensions are compact and balanced, the structural integrity of the shaft is maintained without requiring a centre-bearing support.

Not having a centre-bearing makes the drivetrain simpler and potentially more reliable in this case since there are fewer moving parts to maintain or replace. The AWD system's symmetrical layout contributes to a smooth distribution of power without the need for additional supports or mounts mid-shaft.

While a centre-bearing is not part of the 2017 Subaru Exiga's design, it is still worth understanding what a centre-bearing does in vehicles equipped with one. For those unfamiliar, a centre-bearing acts like a support bearing placed at the midpoint of a multi-piece driveshaft. It holds the driveshaft in place and allows it to spin freely with minimal vibrations. Without a good centre-bearing, vibrations can increase, leading to harsh driving experiences and possible damage to other drivetrain parts.

On vehicles that do have a centre-bearing, maintenance and periodic inspections are vital for keeping the driveshaft system in proper working order. Typically, replacing a centre-bearing involves removing the driveshaft to access the bearing, which can be a bit of a job and usually best left to professionals with the necessary tools and knowledge.

Signs that a centre-bearing might need attention include:

• Increased vibrations from underneath the car, especially at certain speeds
• Unusual noises like humming or rumbling coming from the drive assembly
• Visible wear or damage on the driveshaft during inspections

For those lucky enough to own a 2017 Subaru Exiga, the absence of a centre-bearing means one less part to worry about during servicing. Instead, the focus can be on other common areas such as CV joints, differential oil, and transmission fluid levels to ensure the AWD system remains in top-notch condition.

Regular servicing following Subaru's recommendations will keep the Exiga's drivetrain running smoothly. While the Exiga doesn't use a centre-bearing, knowing what that component does in other vehicles is handy general knowledge for any car enthusiast or DIY mechanic.

So, for anyone concerned about centre-bearing issues on their 2017 Subaru Exiga, they can rest easy. The vehicle's drivetrain design is clever and compact enough to function efficiently without this component. That means fewer worry points and potentially more confidence when hitting the road, whether it's city driving or Australian country roads.