Parts for your 2017 Subaru Forester-Universal joints

2017 Subaru Forester universal joints — what they do and how to look after them

Per Subaru’s own technical sources — the 2017 Forester (SJ) factory Service Manual, Driveline/Axle: Propeller Shaft section, and the genuine Subaru parts catalogue for 2017MY Forester — this model uses a two‑piece propeller shaft with sealed, non‑serviceable universal joints (U‑joints) and a centre support bearing. The front and rear drive shafts are constant‑velocity (CV) joints, but the prop shaft that sends torque to the rear diff relies on U‑joints. Subaru supplies the prop shaft as a complete assembly, the U‑joints aren’t sold separately by the manufacturer.

Universal joints let the propeller shaft transmit drive while the drivetrain sits at slight angles and moves with the suspension. On a Forester, they’re crucial to smooth, quiet AWD operation across town or on a gravel back road.

Because the factory U‑joints are sealed, there’s no greasing point. Maintenance is about inspection and timely replacement rather than periodic lubrication. As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to check for:

• Clunks on take‑off or when shifting from reverse to drive
• Vibration that rises with road speed (often felt from 60–100 km/h)
• Rusty “tea dust” around a U‑joint cap, or torn cap seals
• Free play when the prop shaft is rocked by hand with the vehicle safely raised

If any of those show up, replace the propeller shaft assembly rather than pressing in aftermarket joints, unless a driveline specialist specifies otherwise. Subaru’s service literature frames the unit as non‑disassemblable, and replacing the whole shaft helps preserve balance. A technician will typically:

1. Mark flange orientations to maintain balance
2. Unbolt the front and rear flanges, support the centre bearing, and remove the assembly
3. Install the new shaft, set the centre bearing height/angle per the manual, and torque all fasteners to spec
4. Road‑test for any residual vibration

How often should it be checked? A quick look each service (or every 10,000–15,000 km) is cheap insurance, especially if the car tows, sees corrugations, or carries loads. If the vehicle is stock and mostly does city kilometres, U‑joints can last a long time, it’s the symptoms above that drive replacement, not a fixed interval.

Bottom line: yes, the 2017 Forester runs U‑joints on its prop shaft. Keep an ear out for clunks and a feel for buzz through the seat, and get any play or vibration sorted promptly to protect the centre bearing and rear diff.

Popular questions about 2017 Subaru Forester universal joints

Does a 2017 Subaru Forester have universal joints or only CV joints?

It has both systems: CV joints on the front and rear axles, and universal joints on the two‑piece propeller shaft that drives the rear differential. Subaru’s 2017 Forester service manual and parts catalogue specify a prop shaft with sealed U‑joints and a centre support bearing.

Can the Forester’s U‑joints be greased or serviced?

From factory, no. The 2017 Forester’s prop shaft U‑joints are sealed and considered non‑serviceable, so routine greasing isn’t part of maintenance. If a joint wears or a cap seal fails, the recommended fix per Subaru literature is to replace the propeller shaft assembly to maintain balance and durability.

What are the warning signs the U‑joints need replacing?

Common red flags include a dull clunk on take‑off, a speed‑related vibration, visible rust dust around a bearing cap, or noticeable free play when the shaft is rocked by hand. Left alone, a failing U‑joint can take out the centre bearing or stress the rear diff, so it’s worth checking at each service.