Parts for your 2017 Volkswagen Amarok-Centre bearing

Centre Bearing on the 2017 Volkswagen Amarok: What You Need to Know

For owners and enthusiasts of the 2017 Volkswagen Amarok, understanding the vehicle's drivetrain components is key to keeping it running smoothly. One part some people wonder about is the centre bearing, a component commonly found in the driveline of many four-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive vehicles. But when it comes to the 2017 Amarok, is a centre bearing actually relevant or even used? The answer lies in the Amarok's drivetrain design.

The 2017 Volkswagen Amarok features a robust, direct drive shaft setup that connects the transmission to the rear differential. Unlike some vehicles that use a two-piece drive shaft, which requires a centre bearing to support and stabilise the shaft at the midpoint, the Amarok utilises a one-piece drive shaft system. This means it does not have or require a centre bearing.

Why is a centre bearing unnecessary in this model? A centre bearing generally comes into play when the drive shaft is split into two sections due to length or packaging constraints within the vehicle chassis. In such setups, the centre bearing supports the drive shaft where it passes through the vehicle's underbody, helping to reduce vibration and maintain alignment. Because the Amarok's drive shaft is a single, continuous piece designed to be the right length for the chassis, the need for a centre bearing is eliminated.

This design approach offers several benefits. Having a one-piece drive shaft reduces potential points of failure and maintenance, making the system simpler and more reliable over time. The absence of a centre bearing means one less component that can wear out, come loose, or fail, which reduces maintenance costs and potential driveline noise or roughness issues.

For Volkswagen Amarok owners, this means that if they are hearing unusual noises or experiencing vibrations from the driveline, the cause is unlikely to be a failing centre bearing, since it simply does not exist on their vehicle. Instead, attention should be given to other parts of the driveline, such as the universal joints (U-joints), drive shaft balancing, or rear differential components.

However, it is still essential to maintain the integrity of the drive shaft itself and other drivetrain components. Inspecting the drive shaft for dents, bends, or damage is a good practice during routine servicing. Additionally, ensuring that the U-joints remain lubricated (if they are greaseable) and checking for any worn or loose bolts will extend the life of the driveline.

In a nutshell, while many 4WD and trucks rely on a centre bearing to keep the drive shaft in place, Volkswagen's Amarok opts for a clean and simple drive shaft setup that sidesteps the need for this part entirely. This not only simplifies maintenance but also boosts the reliability of your Amarok's driveline, letting owners enjoy their vehicle's capabilities without added complexity or concerns about centre bearing wear.