Parts for your 2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse cross-Centre bearing

2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross centre-bearing: is it fitted, what it does, and when to replace it

Based on Mitsubishi’s technical literature — including the Eclipse Cross Service Manual (driveline sections for MY2018–2020), Mitsubishi’s S-AWC training material, and the Mitsubishi ASA parts catalogue — a centre-bearing is only relevant on 2019 Eclipse Cross models equipped with All-Wheel Drive (S-AWC). Those AWD variants use a two-piece propeller shaft with a centre support bearing and hanger bracket to carry torque to the rear differential. Front-Wheel Drive (2WD) models don’t have a prop shaft at all, so a centre-bearing isn’t used or required.

For AWD owners, the centre-bearing plays a quiet but crucial role. Sitting mid-way along the prop shaft, it supports the shaft, keeping it aligned under load and across bumps. That support limits vibration, protects the universal joints/CV joints, and helps the S-AWC system deliver smooth torque to the rear end. It’s a rubber-isolated bearing, so it also filters out driveline buzz and hum that would otherwise creep into the cabin.

There’s no scheduled replacement interval for the centre-bearing in Mitsubishi’s service specs, but it’s smart to have it checked during regular servicing — especially if the vehicle tows, does lots of open-road kilometres, or sees rough Kiwi and Aussie backroads. Typical warning signs are a drumming or humming noise that rises with road speed, a shudder on take-off, or a knock/clunk as drive loads change.

• Visual check: look for a torn or perished rubber carrier, misalignment, or rust-stained grease marks.
• Hands-on: with the car safely raised, feel for excess play at the bearing and along the shaft (engine off, transmission in Park).
• Road test: note vibes between 40–80 km/h that ease off on decel — classic centre-bearing symptoms.

When replacement is needed, the prop shaft must be removed. Mark the flanges and yokes so the shaft goes back in the same orientation to preserve balance, and torque the flange bolts to spec with new hardware where specified. Many OEM catalogues list the centre-bearing with the prop shaft assembly, some aftermarket suppliers offer the bearing/carrier separately. After refit, check for transfer case and rear diff leaks, and take it for a smooth road test to verify the fix.

For 2WD Eclipse Cross models, none of the above applies because there’s no rear prop shaft — the transaxle drives the front wheels only, so a centre-bearing isn’t fitted or needed.

Popular questions

Does a 2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross have a centre-bearing?
AWD (S-AWC) models do — they run a two-piece propeller shaft with a centre support bearing. 2WD models don’t have a prop shaft, so there’s no centre-bearing fitted.

What are the symptoms of a failing centre-bearing on an Eclipse Cross?
Look for a low humming or drumming that changes with speed, a take-off shudder, or a clunk on throttle changes. A torn rubber carrier or excessive play at the bearing are common physical signs.

Can the centre-bearing be replaced on its own?
Mitsubishi parts catalogues often bundle the bearing with the prop shaft assembly, but some aftermarket options supply the bearing and carrier separately. Either way, the shaft needs removal, careful alignment, and correct torque on reassembly.