Parts for your 2020 Toyota Hilux-Centre bearing

2020 Toyota HiLux centre bearing: what it does and how to look after it

Yes, the 2020 Toyota HiLux uses a centre (carrier) bearing on the propeller shaft in most variants. Technical references that confirm this include the Toyota HiLux Repair Manual (2015–on, Drivetrain/Propeller Shaft section) and Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue for AN120/AN130 series models, which list a “bearing, propeller shaft centre” for 2020 production. The bearing supports the two-piece tailshaft used on common 4x2 and 4x4 Extra Cab and Double Cab utes, controlling driveline angles and reducing vibration. A quick underbody check will show the hanger bracket and rubber-mounted bearing midway along the shaft.

What the centre bearing does is simple: it supports the long tailshaft in the middle so the shaft runs true, keeps universal joint angles in check, and cuts noise, vibration and harshness. That means fewer shudders on take-off and a smoother run at highway speeds, even with a loaded tray or towing.

There’s no scheduled replacement interval for the centre bearing, it’s a sealed unit. Instead, it’s checked during routine servicing. A sensible approach for Aussie and Kiwi conditions is to inspect every 10,000–20,000 km or 6–12 months, and before big trips or heavy towing. Look for perished rubber, cracking, off-centre sag, or any free play. Spin the shaft by hand and feel for roughness or rumble. Also check the hanger bracket bolts and surrounding bushes.

Tell-tale signs it’s on the way out include:

• Shudder or thump on take-off or when shifting from reverse to drive
• Vibration that peaks around 40–80 km/h under load
• Driveline whine, chirp, or rumble that changes with speed

When replacement’s needed, the tailshaft is removed as an assembly. Good workshops mark the shaft for phasing, press off the old bearing, fit the new unit, and check alignment. Balancing the shaft is wise if there’s any doubt. It’s also a great time to assess the universal joints and centre bearing rubber cushion together, as one worn part can kill the other. Genuine or quality aftermarket parts both do the job, the key is correct install and driveline angle set-up so the new bearing isn’t preloaded.

Left too long, a flogged centre bearing can accelerate wear in the uni joints and even stress the gearbox or transfer case mountings. Sort it early and the HiLux will stay smooth and quiet, on-road and off.

FAQs

Does a 2020 Toyota HiLux have a centre bearing?
Yes — most 2020 HiLux models use a two-piece propeller shaft supported by a centre (carrier) bearing. This is documented in Toyota’s HiLux Repair Manual (2015–on) and shown in the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue for AN120/AN130 series vehicles.

What are the symptoms of a failing centre bearing on a 2020 HiLux?
Common symptoms are a shudder on take-off, vibration at suburban speeds under load, and a rumbling or chirping noise that follows road speed. Visual checks often reveal cracked rubber around the bearing or the shaft sitting low in the hanger.

How much does replacement usually cost?
Costs vary with parts choice and whether balancing is required, but a ballpark in Australia or New Zealand is roughly $500–$1,100 fitted. That typically covers the bearing, labour to remove/refit the shaft, pressing the new unit on, and alignment checks. Additional work (like uni joints or balancing) can add to the total.