Parts for your 2011 Holden Colorado-Centre bearing

2011 Holden Colorado centre bearing: what it does and when to replace it

Yes, a centre bearing is relevant to the 2011 Holden Colorado (RC series) on most dual-cab, space-cab and long‑wheelbase utes because they run a two‑piece tailshaft. This is documented in the Holden Colorado RC Workshop Manual (MY08–MY12), Driveline—Propeller Shaft (centre support bearing service instructions), and reflected in the GM Holden Electronic Parts Catalogue listings for “propeller shaft centre support bearing” on RC 4x2 and 4x4 variants. Some short‑wheelbase 4x2 single‑piece tailshaft models won’t have one, but for the typical 2011 Colorado ute, the centre bearing is very much part of the driveline.

On a two-piece tailshaft, the centre bearing (also called a carrier bearing) supports the shaft mid‑way, keeping everything aligned under load and at speed. It cushions driveline vibrations through a rubber isolator and prevents the shaft from whipping, which helps drivability and reduces wear on universal joints and the diff pinion.

When the centre bearing ages, the rubber mount cracks or sags and the bearing can get noisy. Common tell‑tales in a 2011 Colorado include a shudder on take‑off, a droning or rumbling between about 40–70 km/h, and a clunk on throttle on/off. If the carrier bracket sits off‑centre or the rubber looks torn, it’s time for attention.

Servicing is straightforward during scheduled inspections: check for play, perished rubber, metal‑to‑metal contact, and tailshaft alignment. If there’s vibration, rule out tyre and wheel issues first, then inspect uni joints and the centre bearing together—these parts often fail as a set.

Replacement involves supporting the tailshaft, marking the flanges so phasing is kept the same, removing the centre bracket and rear/front flange bolts, then separating the two halves. The bearing is pressed off the shaft and the new unit pressed on with the correct orientation. It’s vital to refit the shaft with the original alignment marks, seat the centre bearing bracket so the rubber isn’t preloaded (no twist or tension at ride height), and torque fasteners to workshop spec. A short road test for noise and vibration finishes the job.

There’s no fixed interval—replace on condition. Using quality parts and keeping the shaft in phase will keep the Colorado smooth on the open road and under load. If the ute tows or works off‑road, add a quick driveline check at each service, catching a tired centre bearing early can save uni joints and a lot of vibration grief.

Does every 2011 Colorado have a centre bearing?

Most dual‑cab, space‑cab and long‑wheelbase RC models do, because they use a two‑piece tailshaft. A few short‑wheelbase 4x2s with a single‑piece shaft won’t have one. A quick look under the ute will tell you—if you see a carrier bracket mid‑shaft, it’s fitted.

What are the signs the centre bearing is failing?

Shudder on take‑off, a droning or humming around 40–70 km/h, clunks on throttle changes, and a visibly sagging or cracked rubber mount. Any of those on a 2011 Colorado is a good reason to book a driveline check.

Can the centre bearing be replaced without doing the uni joints?

Yes, but if there’s any play or rust staining at the uni joints—or if vibrations have been present for a while—it’s smart to replace them at the same time. It often saves labour and avoids chasing the same vibration twice.