Parts for your 2017 Subaru Legacy-Centre bearing

Understanding the Centre Bearing in the 2017 Subaru Legacy

When it comes to the drivetrain components of the 2017 Subaru Legacy, a key question that often pops up is whether this vehicle uses a centre bearing in its design. After checking through technical documentation and reliable automotive sources, it turns out that the 2017 Subaru Legacy does not utilise a centre bearing in its drivetrain setup. This detail is quite important for anyone considering servicing, maintaining, or replacing drivetrain parts on this vehicle.

So why is there no centre bearing in the 2017 Subaru Legacy? The answer lies mainly in the drivetrain layout of the car. Most Subaru Legacy models, including the 2017 version, are equipped with a symmetrical all-wheel-drive system that features a comparatively compact and efficient drivetrain design. Instead of a long prop shaft that would require support, the driveline is designed in a way that eliminates the need for an intermediate bearing.

Centre bearings are typically found on vehicles that have a long driveshaft assembly. These long driveshafts often need additional support between the transmission and the rear differential to reduce vibrations, maintain alignment and ensure smooth power transfer to the wheels. In many traditional rear-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive cars with lengthy propshafts, the centre bearing acts as an anchor point on the chassis, holding and stabilising the driveshaft.

In the case of the 2017 Subaru Legacy, the drive shafts are shorter due to the boxer engine layout combined with the car's all-wheel-drive system design. Power delivery is managed differently, with shorter shafts connecting the transmission to the wheels directly, minimising the need for intermediate support. This design simplifies the drivetrain assembly, reduces potential wear points, and improves overall reliability.

Since the Legacy does not utilise a centre bearing, there isn't a concern about replacing or maintaining one during routine servicing. However, it is still important to pay attention to other drivetrain components like CV joints, universal joints and the condition of the drive shafts themselves, as these play a critical role in the smooth operation of the all-wheel-drive system. Regular inspections and maintenance of these parts help prevent issues such as vibrations, noise or uneven power delivery.

For folks familiar with other vehicles where centre bearings are standard, the lack of one in the 2017 Subaru Legacy might seem unusual at first. But it's actually a benefit in many ways. Without a centre bearing, there's one less part that could fail and cause drivetrain problems, which translates to potentially lower maintenance costs and fewer headaches for owners over the lifetime of the vehicle.

That said, if any vibrations or noises resembling those caused by a faulty centre bearing do appear, it's wise to consider other components within the drivetrain for the source of the problem. Since Subaru's AWD system uses half shafts with CV joints for power transmission to the rear wheels, worn CV joints or damaged drive shafts are more common culprits rather than centre bearing failures.

Owners should ensure they adhere to the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule, which includes regular checks of the drive shafts, CV boots and the transmission system. Keeping the CV boots intact and free from cracks or tears is especially important, as dirt and moisture can easily damage the CV joints and cause premature failure. This simple inspection can save time and money down the track.

In summary, although many cars need a centre bearing for their long prop shafts, the 2017 Subaru Legacy's engineering avoids the need for one by using a shorter, more compact driveline design as part of its symmetrical AWD system. This design choice eliminates a point of potential wear and simplifies maintenance for owners. Instead, regular care should focus on the CV joints and drive shafts to keep the Legacy running smoothly and reliably.