Parts for your 2013 Suzuki Splash-Centre bearing

Centre Bearing on the 2013 Suzuki Splash: Is It a Thing?

When it comes to the 2013 Suzuki Splash, a quick look through technical manuals and service guides reveals something interesting - there is no centre bearing fitted on this vehicle. That might leave you wondering why that is and what exactly a centre bearing does on other cars. So, let's unpack the whole centre bearing deal and why the Suzuki Splash doesn't need one.

The 2013 Suzuki Splash is a compact hatchback that typically comes with a relatively short and straightforward drivetrain layout. Most versions of the Splash are front-wheel drive, meaning the engine's power is sent directly to the front wheels, and a long driveshaft running the length of the car is absent. Centre bearings usually come into play on vehicles with a long driveshaft, often rear-wheel or all-wheel drive setups, where the driveshaft is split into two sections. The centre bearing supports the shaft in the middle, helping reduce vibration and maintain proper alignment as the shaft spins at high speeds.

Since the Splash is front-wheel drive, it uses half-shafts or CV axles to transfer power directly to the front wheels from the transaxle. These are short shafts that don't need additional support beyond the wheel hub and the transaxle itself. That's why there is no centre bearing on this vehicle - there simply isn't a long driveshaft to need one.

So, if you're poking around under a 2013 Suzuki Splash wondering where the centre bearing is, you won't find it. It's just not part of this model's drivetrain architecture. This setup generally makes for a simpler, lighter drivetrain which can be easier on maintenance and reduces the number of parts that could potentially wear out.

Now, for those who have vehicles that do have centre bearings, here's a bit more detail about what this component does and why keeping tabs on it is a good idea.

A centre bearing's main job is to support the middle section of a two-piece driveshaft, which is common on longer vehicles like utes, vans, and some SUVs. Without this support, the driveshaft would yank on the transmission and rear differential or axle, leading to vibration issues and premature wear on other drivetrain components. It helps maintain the smooth rotation of the driveshaft by holding it in line and absorbing some of the movement caused by suspension travel and engine torque.

Centre bearings usually contain a rubber or elastomer cushion around a metal bracket with a bearing in the centre. This design allows the driveshaft to spin freely and absorb shocks. Over time, the rubber can degrade due to heat, oil contamination, and wear, which means the centre bearing can fail, causing knocking noises, vibration, or even driveshaft issues.

Servicing a centre bearing typically involves inspecting the rubber mount for cracks or wear and checking the bearing inside for smooth spinning without play. If it's making noise or causing vibration, replacement is the way to go - and it's wise to replace the centre bearing as soon as symptoms arise to avoid damage to the driveshaft or surrounding components.

Replacing a centre bearing isn't usually a quick backyard job but also isn't rocket science. It requires localised dismantling of the driveshaft, supporting it properly, and sliding out the old bearing for a new one. A good quality replacement and alignment check is essential so things spin true and vibration-free afterwards.

For a car like the Suzuki Splash, the lack of a centre bearing shows the beauty of simpler drivetrain designs. Less complexity means fewer parts to worry about, fewer potential noises to track down, and generally easier maintenance - all good news for day-to-day driving.

So, while the 2013 Splash doesn't have a centre bearing, understanding what one does helps appreciate the different ways vehicles handle power delivery. If you're ever dealing with a rear or all-wheel-drive vehicle that does have a two-piece driveshaft, keeping an eye on the centre bearing should be part of your routine care. But as far as the 2013 Suzuki Splash goes, this particular bit of kit just isn't relevant.