Parts for your 2016 Mazda Cx-5-Centre bearing

Centre Bearing on the 2016 Mazda CX-5: Is It Used and What You Should Know

When diving into the technical details of the 2016 Mazda CX-5, you won't find a centre bearing as part of its drivetrain setup. This is simply because the CX-5's design and engineering do not require a centre bearing in its driveline.

The 2016 Mazda CX-5 typically comes with either a front-wheel-drive or an all-wheel-drive system, both of which use a layout that does not involve a long, multi-piece driveshaft system that necessitates a centre bearing. Centre bearings are usually found on vehicles with longer or multipart driveshafts, often rear-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive configurations that need to support the driveshaft between the transmission and the rear differential.

In the case of the 2016 Mazda CX-5, the front-wheel-drive version delivers power directly to the front wheels through a transaxle, which combines the transmission and differential into a single compact unit. On all-wheel-drive versions, power is distributed via shorter driveshafts and a multi-plate clutch or centre differential system, which again negates the need for a centre bearing. Since the driveshafts involved are relatively short and supported directly at their ends, there is no intermediate point that requires additional support from a centre bearing.

So why is this important? Understanding why the centre bearing is not included highlights some neat things about the CX-5's engineering. Less mechanical complexity means less weight, fewer parts to wear out, and generally a smoother, quieter ride. For drivers, this translates to lower maintenance costs and fewer potential drivetrain issues down the track.

That said, if a centre bearing is not in the CX-5, what does that mean for servicing and maintenance? While there's no centre bearing to worry about, maintaining the driveline components is still essential. Components like the CV joints, differentials, and the overall transmission system should receive regular health checks and service according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

CV joints, especially, take on critical roles in the CX-5. They connect the transmission and differentials to the wheels, allowing for smooth rotation while accommodating suspension movement. Inspecting CV boots for cracks or tears and replacing grease as needed will help prevent joint failure and maintain a smooth drive, a bit like what proper attention to a centre bearing would aim for on other vehicles.

There's also the transfer case or centre differential system in AWD models, which is a bit of a different beast compared to traditional driveshaft bearings. Regular fluid changes and inspection here ensure the AWD system works perfectly, spreading power to all wheels when needed without adding unnecessary friction or wear.

In other words, although the 2016 Mazda CX-5 skips the centre bearing entirely, the drivetrain is not without its vital maintenance points. Owners are encouraged to stick to Mazda's servicing schedule, keeping an eye on the overall drivetrain health to enjoy a reliable and efficient drive for years.