Parts for your 2022 Mitsubishi Asx-Centre bearing

2022 Mitsubishi ASX centre-bearing: what it is, who has one, and how it’s looked after

Based on technical sources including the Mitsubishi Motors service manual for ASX/RVR/Outlander Sport driveline (Group 22 – Propeller Shaft) and the Mitsubishi ASA OEM parts catalogue, a centre-bearing (carrier bearing) is fitted to All Wheel Drive (AWD/AWC) 2022 Mitsubishi ASX variants because they use a two-piece propeller shaft with a centre support. Front-wheel drive (2WD) ASX models have no propeller shaft to the rear, so a centre-bearing is not present or relevant on those versions. Reputable aftermarket catalogues for AU/NZ also list centre support bearings specifically for AWD ASX models across the 2010–2022 platform.

For AWD-equipped 2022 ASX models, the centre-bearing sits mid-way along the two-piece propeller shaft, cradled in a rubber-mounted support bracket. Its job is to steady the shaft, control angles, and keep vibrations in check as torque heads to the rear differential. On Australia and New Zealand roads where coarse-chip bitumen can highlight driveline buzz, a healthy centre-bearing makes a noticeable difference to cabin comfort by isolating the shaft from the body. It’s a sealed bearing, so there’s no periodic greasing on scheduled services, instead, servicing is about inspection for play, roughness, torn rubber, or signs of misalignment.

When the centre-bearing starts to go, common clues include a low-speed shudder on take-off, a droning or humming that rises with road speed, and a thump or clunk during on–off throttle transitions. Technicians typically check the rubber support for cracking, spin the shaft by hand to feel for notchiness, and look for sling marks from failed seals. Mitsubishi’s factory literature specifies alignment marks on the prop shaft sections, keeping those lined up on refit helps preserve balance and NVH performance. If the bearing or its support has deteriorated, it’s generally replaced as an assembly off the vehicle, and the prop shaft is reinstalled with new fasteners where specified. Many driveline specialists will recommend inspecting the universal joints and rear coupling at the same time, given shared labour to remove the shaft. Road testing after replacement under light, steady cruise and gentle acceleration helps confirm the fix. Owners who tow or regularly drive on corrugations should have the centre-bearing inspected more frequently, as extra load and vibration can accelerate wear, even though the part itself isn’t a scheduled replaceable item.

For 2WD 2022 ASX models, a centre-bearing isn’t used because the transaxle drives the front wheels directly with no rear propeller shaft. Deleting the shaft and bearing reduces weight, cost, and complexity while improving efficiency—one of the reasons the 2WD ASX remains a frugal city and touring choice.

• Key symptoms of a worn centre-bearing on AWD: vibration on take-off, mid-cabin drone, and driveline clunks.
• Service tip: inspect rubber support and shaft alignment during routine underbody checks, replace as an assembly if wear is found.

Popular questions

Does every 2022 Mitsubishi ASX have a centre-bearing?
Only AWD (AWC) variants do. The 2WD ASX has no rear propeller shaft, so there’s no centre-bearing on those models. Checking the compliance plate or driveline layout under the vehicle will confirm which system is fitted.

What are the early signs the centre-bearing needs attention on an AWD ASX?
Owners often notice a faint drone from mid-cabin that changes with road speed, a shudder when taking off, or a dull clunk as throttle is applied or lifted. An inspection of the rubber support for cracks and a check for bearing roughness can catch issues before they worsen.

Is the centre-bearing a service item or only replaced when faulty?
It’s a sealed, non-serviceable bearing and isn’t scheduled for periodic replacement. It’s inspected during underbody checks and replaced if there’s play, roughness, or perished rubber. Many workshops recommend assessing the universal joints and couplings at the same time, as removal labour overlaps.