Parts for your 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer-Centre bearing

2012 Mitsubishi Lancer centre-bearing: does it apply?

Based on Mitsubishi’s technical literature, a centre-bearing (also called a centre support or carrier bearing) is not used on the mainstream 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer models sold in Australia and New Zealand that are front-wheel drive (CJ/CF series). These cars use a transaxle and short front driveshafts only, so there’s no long propeller shaft to support. Conversely, 2012 all-wheel-drive variants such as the Lancer Evolution X (CZ4A) and Lancer Ralliart do have a two-piece propeller shaft with a centre support bearing.

Technical sources referenced: Mitsubishi Motors Lancer (CJ/CF) Service Manual, Driveline/Propeller Shaft group shows no propeller shaft for FWD models, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X (CZ4A) and Ralliart Workshop Manuals, Group 22A Propeller Shaft, detail a two-piece propeller shaft and centre support (carrier) bearing, Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue lists a carrier/centre support bearing for AWD applications, and no listing for CJ/CF FWD variants.

Why most 2012 Lancers don’t use a centre-bearing:

• They’re front-wheel drive, so there’s no rear differential or long prop shaft to support.
• Short front half-shafts don’t require an intermediate support bearing in the floorpan.
• It saves weight, cost, and complexity compared with AWD or RWD layouts.

If the vehicle in question is a 2012 Lancer Evolution X or Ralliart (AWD), the centre-bearing is fitted and is an important service item. Here’s what owners of those variants should know.

The centre-bearing on an AWD 2012 Lancer sits midway along the two-piece propeller shaft, cradled in a rubber mount and bolted to the body. Its job is to support the shaft, keep it aligned, and soak up vibration as torque heads to the rear diff. When it’s healthy, the driveline feels smooth and quiet, when it’s tired, the cabin can cop a low-speed shudder or a highway-speed drone, and there might be a clunk on take-off.

There’s no fixed replacement interval, but it’s smart to have it inspected during regular servicing—especially if the car sees spirited driving or rough roads. A quick check includes looking for perished rubber in the support, excessive shaft play near the bearing, and any tell-tale noise on overrun or under load. If the rubber is cracked or the bearing feels gritty or loose, it’s time to sort it.

Replacement is usually straightforward for a workshop with a press: the shaft is marked for orientation, removed, the old bearing is pressed off, and a new one is installed in the correct direction. It pays to renew associated hardware (mounting bracket rubbers, locking nuts/bolts) and to keep the original phasing of the two shaft halves to avoid vibration. While there, a technician should check the rear diff and transfer case mounts, coupling joints, and flange surfaces. If the shaft shows damage or the assembly is out of balance, professional balancing or a complete prop shaft assembly may be the better call.

After refit, correct torque on the centre support bracket and flange bolts matters. A road test should confirm no vibration on acceleration, cruise, or coast. Done right, a fresh centre-bearing restores that tight, factory feel and keeps the AWD driveline happy for the long haul.

Popular questions about a 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer centre-bearing

Does a 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer have a centre-bearing?
Most 2012 Lancer models (CJ/CF FWD) don’t have one because they don’t run a rear propeller shaft. The AWD variants—Lancer Evolution X and Ralliart—do use a two-piece prop shaft with a centre support bearing. If unsure which you have, check the build plate or look for a rear differential and prop shaft.

What are the signs a centre-bearing is worn on an AWD Lancer?
Common clues include a droning or humming that rises with road speed, a shudder on take-off, and a thump when shifting from reverse to drive. Visual checks may reveal cracked support rubber or excessive shaft movement at the bracket. These symptoms can overlap with worn mounts or joints, so a proper inspection is wise.

Can the centre-bearing be replaced separately, or is a full prop shaft needed?
On many AWD Lancer Evo/Ralliart setups, the centre-bearing can be replaced separately using a press and the right procedures. If the shaft is damaged, badly worn at the splines, or won’t balance cleanly, a complete assembly may be recommended. A specialist can advise after inspecting runout and balance.