Parts for your 2018 Subaru Exiga-Driveshafts

2018 Subaru Exiga driveshafts: what they do and how to keep them happy

Driveshafts are absolutely relevant to the 2018 Subaru Exiga. Technical references including the Subaru Exiga/Exiga Crossover 7 (YA) service manual, the Subaru FAST electronic parts catalogue, and Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD technical briefs confirm the model is built with front CV driveshafts, and on AWD variants, a propeller shaft to the rear differential plus rear axle shafts. Front-wheel-drive versions still use a pair of front CV driveshafts to deliver power to the wheels, so either way, this vehicle runs driveshafts as a core component of the drivetrain.

On the 2018 Exiga, the driveshafts’ main gig is transferring torque smoothly from the transmission and differentials to the wheels while coping with steering angle and suspension travel. The CV joints at each end of the shafts allow for that movement without vibration, and the protective rubber boots keep grease in and grime out.

As part of regular servicing in Australia and New Zealand, it’s smart to pop an eye over the CV boots and check for splits, perished rubber, or grease flung around the inner guard. If a boot’s torn, get it sorted quickly—once dirt gets into a CV joint, wear accelerates and the whole shaft can end up needing replacement. AWD Exiga owners should also listen for rumbling from the propeller shaft’s centre bearing and feel for shudder on take-off under load.

When replacement is on the cards, many workshops recommend complete shaft assemblies over piecemeal joint repairs—they’re time-efficient and restore factory balance. Use quality OE or equivalent parts, new axle nuts, fresh circlips or spring pins where fitted, and follow Subaru torque specs from the workshop manual. After installation, a short road test to check for vibration and a recheck of the staked hub nut is a tidy practice.

A few quick pointers Exiga owners appreciate:

• Clicking on full lock usually points to an outer CV joint on its way out.
• Vibration under acceleration can be an inner CV issue or a tired prop shaft bearing (AWD).
• Keep tyre sizes and wear even on AWD models to reduce driveline stress.
• Inspect boots at each service interval—catching a split boot early saves dollars.

Does the 2018 Subaru Exiga have rear driveshafts?

AWD versions do—there’s a propeller shaft sending power rearward and a pair of rear axle shafts. Front-wheel-drive versions only have the two front CV driveshafts. Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD layout is the giveaway: if it’s AWD, it’s driving both axles.

How long do Exiga driveshafts last?

With intact boots and normal use, they can run well past 150,000 km. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions, heat and road grime can age the rubber boots, so preventative inspections are key. Once a boot fails, the clock’s ticking on the joint—replace the boot fast or plan on a full shaft.

What are the symptoms of a failing driveshaft or CV joint on an Exiga?

Common signs include clicking while turning, a thump or shudder under acceleration, vibration at speed, and grease splatter near the wheel or subframe. AWD owners might also notice a low-speed rumble from the centre bearing. If any of these pop up, get a driveline check before it worsens.