Parts for your 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse cross-Centre bearing

2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross centre-bearing: fitted on S-AWC models, not on 2WD

Technical sources confirm the 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross with S-AWC (all-wheel drive) uses a two-piece propeller shaft supported by a centre-bearing, while front-wheel-drive (2WD) models don’t have a prop shaft at all and therefore have no centre-bearing. This is shown in Mitsubishi’s factory Service Manual (2018–2020) under Group 22A – Propeller Shaft, which details inspection and replacement of the centre support bearing on S-AWC variants. The Mitsubishi Global Parts Catalogue (ASA) for GK1W/GK9W chassis similarly lists a “Center Bearing, Propeller Shaft” only for 4WD/S-AWC trims.

• Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Service Manual (2018–2020), Group 22A – Propeller Shaft (S-AWC models specify a centre support bearing)
• Mitsubishi Global Parts Catalogue (ASA), GK1W/GK9W, Group 22 – Propeller Shaft (centre-bearing itemised for S-AWC trims)

For Eclipse Cross S-AWC owners, the centre-bearing’s job is simple but crucial: it supports the middle of the two-piece prop shaft, keeping everything aligned as torque heads down the car to the rear diff. By cradling the shaft in a rubber-mounted bearing, it tames vibration, reduces driveline shudder on take-off, and helps the cabin stay quiet at highway speeds. When that bearing or its rubber support gets tired, you’ll often hear a droning or feel a buzz around 60–90 km/h, a thump when shifting from Drive to Reverse, or a shudder pulling away uphill.

During regular servicing, a quick visual and hands-on check goes a long way. A tech will look for cracked or separated rubber around the bearing, spin the shaft by hand and listen for roughness, and feel for excess play at the support. It’s smart to inspect it any time the car’s on a hoist for CVT or diff fluid service, and especially after a knock to the underbody.

If replacement’s on the cards, best practice is to mark the prop shaft flanges so everything goes back in the same orientation, drop the exhaust heat shields, support the shaft properly, and renew any self-locking fasteners. Refitting with the original matchmarks helps maintain balance, and it’s wise to check the condition of related bits while you’re there—flex couplings, universal/CV joints and the rear diff mount. Afterward, a road test should be smooth with no vibration or rumble. Genuine or quality aftermarket bearings both do the job, what matters is correct fitment and following the service manual torque specs.

For 2WD Eclipse Cross owners, there’s no centre-bearing on the vehicle, so any driveline noise will be coming from other components up front rather than a prop shaft support.

Popular questions about 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross centre-bearing

Does a 2WD 2020 Eclipse Cross have a centre-bearing?
No. The centre-bearing only exists on S-AWC models because they use a two-piece propeller shaft to drive the rear wheels. Front-wheel-drive versions don’t have a prop shaft, so there’s no centre-bearing to service or replace.

What are the common symptoms of a worn centre-bearing on an Eclipse Cross S-AWC?
Typical signs include a low-frequency droning at 60–90 km/h, a shudder on take-off, and a thump when shifting between Drive and Reverse. Underneath, the rubber support may look cracked or separated, and there can be noticeable play at the bearing.

How often should the centre-bearing be checked?
It’s worth a look at each major service interval or whenever the car’s on a hoist—think every 20,000–30,000 km in NZ/AU conditions. Also check after any underbody impact or if new vibrations appear. Follow the factory Service Manual for inspection steps and torque specs if removal is required.