Parts for your 2012 Toyota Mark x-Centre bearing

2012 Toyota Mark X centre-bearing: purpose, service and replacement

Yes, the 2012 Toyota Mark X (GRX130/GRX133) uses a centre-bearing. Toyota’s Repair Manual for the GRX13# series (Drivetrain/Axle – Propeller Shaft) specifies a two‑piece propeller shaft supported by a centre support bearing, and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue lists a “Bearing Assy, Centre Support, Propeller Shaft” under PNC 37230 for these models. This applies to the rear‑wheel drive variants and the AWD “Four” grades where fitted.

On this Mark X, the centre‑bearing’s job is to support the two‑piece tailshaft in the middle, keeping everything aligned and smooth as the engine’s torque heads to the rear wheels. The bearing sits in a rubber mount to isolate vibration, reduce driveline shudder, and help control NVH on take‑off and at motorway speeds. By splitting the shaft into two sections, Toyota can run optimal operating angles and critical speeds, which keeps the car quieter and more refined.

There’s no routine lubrication—this bearing is sealed. As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect it visually on a hoist. A tech will look for torn or perished rubber, a sagging mount, shiny witness marks from contact, and any free play. A quick spin by hand can reveal roughness or rumbling. Common tell‑tales while driving include:

• Thump or clunk on take‑off or during gear changes
• Shudder between roughly 40–70 km/h on light throttle
• Whirring or droning that follows road speed, not engine speed

If replacement’s on the cards, the tailshaft is removed as an assembly, the halves are match‑marked, and the old bearing is pressed off the centre journal. The new bearing is pressed on square and the shaft halves are re‑phased to the original marks to preserve balance. The bracket bolts are tightened to factory torque, and the bearing is positioned per the Toyota Repair Manual instructions (some models specify a small fore/aft preload or a neutral set—follow the manual for the GRX13#). If the shaft was separated without marking, or if any vibration remains, a balance service is recommended.

While there, it’s sensible to check the universal joints and the front coupling/damper (where fitted) because wear there can mimic centre‑bearing issues. For most owners, an underbody inspection every major service or 20,000 km is ample. In Australia and New Zealand, many workshops can handle this in about 1.5–3.0 hours, quality aftermarket or genuine bearings are both common choices.

Popular questions about the 2012 Toyota Mark X centre-bearing

Does the 2012 Mark X actually have a centre-bearing?
It does. Toyota’s GRX13# Repair Manual describes a two‑piece propeller shaft with a centre support bearing, and the Toyota EPC lists the centre‑bearing assembly (PNC 37230) for these models. Both RWD and AWD variants use a supported tailshaft design.

Is it safe to drive with a noisy or torn centre-bearing?
Short distances at low speed might be possible, but it’s not recommended. A failing bearing can allow the shaft to move, causing shudder, increased wear on universal joints, and in severe cases damage to the shaft or surrounding components. Best to book it in as soon as symptoms show.

How much does replacement usually cost in AU/NZ?
As a ballpark, the bearing itself typically ranges from about $120–$300 AUD/NZD depending on brand, with 1.5–3.0 hours of labour. Most jobs land somewhere around $350–$800 all‑up, with extra cost if balancing, couplings, or U‑joints are required.