Parts for your 2017 Nissan Navara-Centre bearing

Understanding the Centre Bearing on the 2017 Nissan Navara

The 2017 Nissan Navara is a versatile and rugged dual-cab ute, renowned for its durability and capability both on and off the road. When it comes to the drive shaft system and related components, some parts are essential for smooth operation and longevity of the vehicle's drivetrain. One such part often discussed in vehicles with long driveshafts is the centre bearing. But is a centre bearing actually used on the 2017 Nissan Navara? Let's unpack this and explain what it means for Navara owners.

For those unfamiliar, a centre bearing is typically found in vehicles that have a two-piece driveshaft setup. The bearing supports the driveshaft at the midpoint, helping to stabilize the shaft and reduce vibrations while it spins to transmit power from the engine to the rear wheels. It essentially holds the driveshaft in the correct position, preventing excessive movement and wear on the joints. This is crucial in long driveshafts where the shaft is divided into sections to manage length or flex better on rough terrain.

Now, regarding the 2017 Nissan Navara, technical resources and OEM part catalogues show that this model predominantly uses a single-piece driveshaft rather than a two-piece setup. Because the driveshaft is a single continuous piece, it does not require a centre bearing to support an intermediate section. The driveshaft is supported at each end by the transmission output and the differential input, with universal joints (U-joints) at both ends to allow for necessary angular movement.

This means the centre bearing is simply not relevant to the 2017 Nissan Navara's drivetrain configuration. Without a multi-section driveshaft to support, a centre bearing is redundant and therefore not fitted. The emphasis is on the strength and flexibility of the single-piece shaft and its associated joints rather than an additional bearing mount.

Why does this matter? Well, utes like the Navara are designed to balance ruggedness with simplicity. By utilising a single-piece driveshaft, Nissan cuts down on the number of moving parts, potential failure points, and maintenance requirements. A centre bearing, while useful in some vehicles, would introduce an extra component that needs periodic inspection, potential replacement and can be a source of noise or failed supports if neglected.

Moreover, the typical length of the 2017 Navara's driveshaft does not reach the extent where a two-piece shaft and centre bearing are necessary. This design choice suits the ute's chassis layout and suspension travel, keeping the drivetrain more straightforward and reliable for Australian conditions.

That said, while the Navara does not have a centre bearing, it still has components you should keep an eye on to maintain smooth drivetrain function. This includes the universal joints or CV joints, the driveshaft itself for dents or bends, and the differential mounts. These parts are critical to ensuring power delivery remains steady and no unwanted vibrations creep in during drives.

So if you come across references to centre bearings when looking up parts or discussing maintenance, it's worth knowing whether your particular model or variant uses one. For the 2017 Nissan Navara, centre bearings are not fitted, so maintenance efforts should be directed to other drivetrain components.

Understanding these details can save Navara owners time and money and help focus servicing on what truly matters. Regular checks of the driveshaft joints, lubricating where specified, and watching for unusual noises or vibrations will keep the ute running reliably without the fuss of a centre bearing to worry about.