Parts for your 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse cross-Centre bearing

2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross centre-bearing: what it is, and when it matters

Based on Mitsubishi technical literature, a centre-bearing is relevant only on all-wheel-drive (S-AWC) variants of the 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. The Mitsubishi Motors Workshop/Service Manual for Eclipse Cross GL3W/GK1W (Group 22A – Propeller Shaft) specifies a two-piece propeller shaft with a centre support bearing for S-AWC models, while front-wheel-drive versions don’t have a propeller shaft and therefore don’t use a centre-bearing. This is also reflected in the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue, which lists a centre support bearing and bracket for AWD VINs but none for 2WD.

For owners of a 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross with S-AWC, the centre-bearing sits mid-span on the two-piece propeller shaft and keeps the shaft aligned and supported as torque heads to the rear diff. It reduces vibration, controls shaft movement under load, and helps the driveline stay smooth and quiet at highway speeds.

During regular servicing, a quick health check goes a long way. A tech will typically inspect the rubber support around the bearing for cracking or collapse, spin the shaft by hand to feel for roughness, and check the mount for looseness. On-road symptoms that point to a tired centre-bearing include a steady vibration through the floor at certain speeds, a droning or humming from the middle of the vehicle, and a clunk on take-off as the shaft moves more than it should.

Replacement is straightforward workshop fare but best left to a pro because prop-shaft phasing and balance matter. Usual steps include marking the flanges for reassembly alignment, dropping the exhaust heat shields, unbolting the centre support bracket, and removing the shaft as an assembly. Depending on parts availability and local practice, the bearing and support can sometimes be serviced separately, otherwise, many workshops fit a complete propeller shaft to maintain OE balance and warranty confidence. Fresh hardware is typically used on re-fit, with flange faces cleaned and everything torqued to spec from the service manual.

There’s no routine lubrication for the centre-bearing — it’s a sealed unit. The smart play is periodic inspection during scheduled servicing, especially if the vehicle tows, carries heavy loads, or regularly sees coarse-chip country roads. Catching early wear saves the rear diff coupling, mounts, and tyres from vibration-related grief.

• Tell-tale signs: mid-car vibration, droning at speed, clunk on take-off, perished rubber support
• Service tips: inspect during routine services, replace if noisy/loose, maintain prop-shaft alignment on reassembly

FAQs

Does a 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross have a centre-bearing?
Only if it’s the S-AWC (AWD) model. Front-wheel-drive versions don’t have a propeller shaft, so there’s no centre-bearing fitted.

What are the signs the centre-bearing is failing?
Expect a steady vibration from the middle of the car at certain speeds, a low droning or humming, a thud or clunk on take-off, or visible cracking/collapse of the rubber support around the bearing.

Can the centre-bearing be replaced on its own?
In some markets it’s available with the support as a service part, otherwise, workshops often replace the complete propeller shaft to preserve balance and avoid repeat vibration issues. A technician will advise based on parts availability and condition.