Parts for your 2020 Nissan X-trail-Centre bearing

2020 Nissan X‑TRAIL centre-bearing: what it does, whether you’ve got one, and how to look after it

Referencing factory material, the 2020 Nissan X‑TRAIL (T32) with All‑Mode 4x4‑i all‑wheel drive uses a two‑piece propeller shaft with a centre (carrier) bearing and mounting bracket. This is shown in the Nissan X‑TRAIL T32 Series Service Manual (DLN – Driveline/Propeller Shaft, component layout and service procedure list “Center bearing” and “Center bearing bracket”) and is also called out in the Nissan FAST electronic parts catalogue for T32 AWD models as a “Bearing Assy – Propeller Shaft Center.” The related T32‑platform Nissan Rogue service manual depicts the same arrangement. Front‑wheel‑drive 2WD X‑TRAIL variants don’t have a prop shaft, so there’s no centre bearing fitted. That makes the centre-bearing relevant only to AWD models.

On AWD 2020 X‑TRAILs, the centre-bearing supports the two‑piece prop shaft that runs from the transfer case to the rear final drive. Its rubber‑insulated mount holds the shaft steady under load, keeps it aligned, and soaks up vibration, which helps the cabin stay quiet and the driveline stay smooth over Aussie and Kiwi roads.

There’s no fixed replacement interval for the centre-bearing, but it should be inspected during routine servicing, especially if the vehicle tows, sees corrugated gravel, or does beach work. A quick check involves looking for play at the bearing, torn rubber, or shiny rub marks on the bracket. On a road test, clues include a humming or droning that rises with speed, a thump on take‑off, or a driveline vibration that’s more noticeable under load than on overrun.

If it’s worn, note that Nissan typically supplies the centre-bearing with the prop shaft as an assembly. Some aftermarket options allow the bearing to be replaced on its own, but correct pressing, phasing of the shaft, and balance are critical. Anyone tackling the job should mark the flanges and yokes before removal, torque the bracket and flange fasteners to spec, and recheck for vibrations after refitting. It’s also smart to inspect the rear diff mount, engine and transmission mounts, and the prop shaft universal/CV joints at the same time—excess movement elsewhere can shorten the new bearing’s life.

There’s no greasing point on the centre-bearing itself, so “maintenance” is really about regular inspections and keeping an ear out for new noises. If the vehicle has seen salt water, a fresh‑water rinse of the underbody helps slow corrosion of the bracket and fasteners.

• Common symptoms: rumble or drone with road speed, take‑off clunk, load‑related vibration.
• Service tips: mark flanges, maintain shaft phasing, use new fasteners where specified, road‑test and verify.
• Applicability: fitted to AWD (All‑Mode 4x4‑i) models, not fitted to 2WD.

Popular questions about the 2020 Nissan X‑TRAIL centre-bearing

Does a 2WD 2020 X‑TRAIL have a centre-bearing?

No. The 2WD is front‑wheel drive and doesn’t run a propeller shaft to the rear, so there’s no centre-bearing fitted. Only AWD (All‑Mode 4x4‑i) models use a two‑piece prop shaft with a centre support bearing and bracket.

What are the signs the centre-bearing is failing?

Typical signs are a low‑pitch hum or drone that follows road speed, a vibration that’s worse under acceleration, or a dull thump on take‑off. A visual check may reveal torn rubber around the bearing or a sagging support. If those symptoms crop up, have the driveline inspected before it affects the shaft joints or mounts.

Can the centre-bearing be replaced on its own, or does the whole shaft need changing?

Nissan commonly supplies the prop shaft as a complete unit. Some aftermarket suppliers offer the centre-bearing separately, but correct pressing, shaft phasing and balance are crucial. Many workshops opt for the complete assembly to avoid imbalance, while experienced driveline specialists may replace just the bearing if the rest of the shaft is in good nick.