2005 Subaru Axles causing vibration

[Joe Marconi]

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[Gonzo]

Here's a problem everyone should be aware of. We replaced both axles on a 2005 Subaru Outback, 2.5. We replaced the axle because both outer axle joints boots were broken. After we put the axles in, the car had a bad vibration at idle and felt like bad engine mounts.

 

We found an Identifix bulletin about aftermarket axles causing this problem. A few phone calls to the part supplier later, we found out that these axles are new from China and they are machined wrong and somehow transmitting the engine vibrations thru the vehicle.

 

Many part companies carry these axles under different names, so be carefull!

 

That's almost funny Joe, a year ago or so I had the same situation... It was because the joints were to stiff... they wouldn't turn smoothly... made the car vibrate like crazy. Had to switch manufacturers...

[CARMandP]

I have had this problem in the past (several times with Hondas). They would vibrate bad under load. I have come to the conclusion not to ever used remaned axles unless I absolutely have to. I have had much better luck with new axles and I don't have to mess with the cores.

[xrac]

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[Joe Marconi]

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[Joe Marconi]

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[DewayneP]

Joe, I noticed you replaced these because the boots were torn. Have you ever just replaced the boots? I do that at my shop and I think it has potentially saved me these headaches. I've heard for a long time that the best parts for a car are the ones they are born with, I think in this case that rings true? Of course, just changing the boots does require more labor and you have to make sure they are installed and greased properly, so maybe it's not the best idea? Just searching for ideas...

[Joe Marconi]

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[alfredauto]

old topic but we just had the same problem. Another shop removed the original torn axles and put in "new" ones on a Subaru. Gravy job turned bad, it picked up a bad vibration on acceleration. They balanced the tires and replaced the axles under warranty. Same problem. Sent it to us frustrated. We identifixed it and sent back the new "new" axles and traded them for new "reman" axles, problem solved. Customer normally would have been screwed $115 per side on the cores as the originals were gone but lucky for them we had some laying around in the junk pile.

 

We don't rebuild axles or replace boots anymore either, the reman axle with lifetime warranty is faster to install and cheaper in most cases.

Edited June 2, 2014 by alfredauto