Parts for your 2017 Subaru Forester-Centre bearing

Centre Bearing on the 2017 Subaru Forester: Is It Needed?

When it comes to the 2017 Subaru Forester, it's important to understand whether a centre bearing plays a role in the vehicle's drivetrain setup. A centre bearing, sometimes called a carrier bearing, is typically found on vehicles with a two-piece driveshaft assembly. This part supports the driveshaft where it splits into two sections, reducing vibration and ensuring smooth power delivery from the transmission to the wheels.

However, the 2017 Subaru Forester does not come equipped with a centre bearing. This is because the Forester employs a different drivetrain design where a centre bearing simply isn't necessary. The Forester's all-wheel-drive system uses a single-piece driveshaft from the transmission to the rear differential. Since there's no need to support or stabilise a split driveshaft, a centre bearing is not fitted.

Why is that? The Subaru Forester uses a symmetrical AWD system powered by a boxer engine and a horizontally opposed layout drivetrain. This design promotes balance and lower centre of gravity but also allows Subaru to use a simpler, robust drivetrain with fewer moving parts and connections. Without a two-piece driveshaft, there is no need for an intermediate support mechanism such as a centre bearing.

This design choice offers some practical benefits. It reduces the number of components that might wear out or fail, meaning less regular maintenance and fewer repairs related to driveshaft hangers or bearings. It also contributes to a quieter, smoother ride, since there are fewer joints and bearings to generate noise or vibration.

Given all this, if someone is searching for a centre bearing specific to a 2017 Subaru Forester, they are likely to be confused. They won't find one because it simply does not exist on this model. Instead, when working on the Forester's drivetrain, technicians focus on other key components such as CV joints, differentials, and the single-piece driveshaft itself.

In terms of maintenance, the absence of a centre bearing means there are fewer parts that require attention in the Forester's drivetrain. Instead, regular servicing revolves around checking and maintaining the driveshaft boots, inspecting the CV joints for wear, and ensuring the differential fluids are topped up and in good condition. These steps help ensure power is delivered smoothly and reliably to all wheels without the need for a centre bearing's support.

So, for Forester owners and mechanics, knowing this detail can save time and hassle. There's no need to hunt for a centre bearing when one simply isn't part of the drivetrain. Instead, focusing on the actual components present will keep this reliable SUV running smoothly for years to come.