Parts for your 2016 Nissan Navara-Centre bearing

2016 Nissan Navara centre-bearing: fitment, purpose and upkeep

Based on technical references including the Nissan Navara D23/NP300 Service Manual (Propeller Shaft section, DLN, 2015–2018 editions), the Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue for D23 models, and Australian driveline catalogues from brands such as Hardy Spicer and Drivetech 4x4, the 2016 Navara commonly uses a two-piece tailshaft with a centre support bearing. This applies to most Dual Cab and many 4x4 variants. Certain short-wheelbase 2WD single-cab models may run a one-piece shaft without a centre-bearing, but for the bulk of 2016 Navara utes on Aussie and Kiwi roads, the centre-bearing is fitted and relevant.

The centre-bearing’s job is to support the two-piece tailshaft mid-way, keeping it running true, reducing vibration and noise, and allowing a longer wheelbase without pushing the shaft beyond its safe critical speed. It’s a sealed bearing mounted in a rubber carrier that also isolates driveline harshness from the cabin.

Because the bearing is sealed, there’s no greasing to do at service time. What matters is regular inspection. Every 20,000 km (or when doing a big trip/haul), a tech should check the rubber carrier for cracks or sag, spin the shaft and listen for rumble, and feel for excess play. Typical warning signs are a shudder on take-off, a dull thump when shifting from reverse to drive, or a rumbling/whirring that sits under the seat at 40–80 km/h, often worse under load.

If replacement is needed, it’s a remove-and-press job: the tailshaft comes out, the old bearing is pressed off, and the new one is pressed on with the correct orientation and preload. Good practice is to:

• Mark the flanges and tube halves so phasing stays identical on reassembly.
• Inspect universal joints and slip joint for wear, replace any suspect parts while it’s out.
• Fit the carrier squarely and torque the bracket bolts to spec (refer to the D23 manual, bracket fasteners are typically around the high-30s to ~50 N·m range depending on variant).
• On lifted Navaras, check tailshaft angles, spacers or shims at the centre-bearing may be needed to tame take-off shudder.

Quality matters. Cheap bearings can drone early, especially if the ute tows, runs bigger tyres, or has a GVM upgrade. With correct setup, a centre-bearing can last well past 100,000 km, hard work and harsh angles bring that forward. A short post-repair road test—light throttle, then load—helps confirm it’s happy.

Does a 2016 Nissan Navara have a centre-bearing?

Most 2016 NP300/D23 Navaras (especially Dual Cab and 4x4) have a two-piece tailshaft with a centre-bearing. Some short-wheelbase 2WD single cabs may use a one-piece shaft and won’t have one. A quick underbody glance for the mid-shaft support bracket will tell the story.

What are the signs my NP300 centre-bearing is worn out?

Common give-aways are a shudder on take-off, a rumble or droning under the seat around 40–80 km/h, and a clunk when shifting between reverse and drive. A sagging or cracked rubber carrier or visible play in the shaft at the support are also red flags.

How long does replacement take and what does it cost in AU/NZ?

Allow about 1.5–3.0 hours depending on rust, exhaust/heat shield access, and whether U-joints are done too. Parts range roughly from AUD/NZD $120–$300 for a quality centre-bearing, or significantly more if a complete tailshaft assembly is chosen. Shops will quote based on inspection.