Parts for your 2022 Subaru Impreza-Universal joints

2022 Subaru Impreza universal joints: what they do and how to look after them

Based on Subaru’s technical literature, universal joints are indeed used on the 2022 Subaru Impreza. The Subaru Service Manual for the GK/GT-series Impreza (Model Years 2017–2022) describes a two‑piece propeller shaft with a centre support bearing and universal joints in the driveline. Subaru’s electronic parts catalogue also lists the propeller shaft as a complete assembly with staked, non‑serviceable universal joints. While the front and rear drive shafts at the wheels use constant velocity (CV) joints, the vehicle’s propeller shaft employs universal joints to carry torque to the rear differential as part of Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD.

On the 2022 Impreza, the universal joints (often called U‑joints) live in the propeller shaft between the transmission’s transfer section and the rear diff. Their job is to transmit power smoothly while accommodating the small changes in angle that occur as the driveline moves under load and over bumps. That’s how the car keeps its all‑wheel traction without vibration.

These factory U‑joints are sealed and not greaseable, so routine maintenance is all about inspection rather than lubrication. A sensible service routine in Australia and New Zealand is to check them at regular services or any time driveline vibrations are reported—especially for cars doing lots of kilometres on coarse‑chip roads or living near the coast.

• Common symptoms of wear: a shudder on take‑off, a dull clunk when shifting between drive and reverse, a chirp/click at low speed, or a vibration that shows up around highway speeds under load.
• Visual clues: rust‑coloured dust around bearing caps, sling marks, or torn boots where a CV‑style joint is used in the assembly.

Because the Impreza’s U‑joints are staked in, Subaru supplies the propeller shaft as a complete unit. That means replacement rather than pressing in a new joint. A competent workshop will mark flange orientations before removal, renew hardware as required, check the centre support bearing and rear diff bushes, and torque everything to spec. After refit, a quick road test for any residual vibration seals the deal.

How long do they last? Many will run well past 150,000 km, but use and environment matter. Catching early signs saves wear on the centre bearing and differential, and keeps the cabin nice and smooth on those long Kiwi and Aussie drives.

• Does a 2022 Subaru Impreza have universal joints or only CV joints?

  The 2022 Impreza uses both. CV joints are at the front and rear wheel drive shafts, while the propeller shaft in the middle of the car uses universal joints to send drive to the rear differential. On late‑model Impreza, those U‑joints are sealed and supplied as part of the complete prop shaft assembly.

• How can someone tell if the universal joints are worn on a 2022 Impreza?

  Owners often notice a shudder on take‑off, a clunk when selecting reverse, or a vibration at 80–100 km/h under load. A technician will check for free play at the prop shaft flanges and look for rust dust around the bearing caps. If wear is confirmed, the fix is typically a replacement propeller shaft assembly.

• Do the universal joints on a 2022 Impreza need greasing?

  No. They’re sealed, non‑greaseable joints. The smart move is periodic inspection during scheduled servicing—especially if the vehicle tows, sees rough roads, or lives in a salty environment. When wear shows up, replacement of the prop shaft assembly restores smoothness.