Center Support Bearing Repair Costs
Basic Center Support Bearing Replacement
Labor Time: 1-1.5 hours
Labor Cost: $125-$187.50
Parts Cost: $50-$150
Total Estimated Cost: $175-$337.50
Center Support Bearing with Driveshaft Removal
Labor Time: 2-2.5 hours
Labor Cost: $250-$312.50
Parts Cost: $50-$150
Total Estimated Cost: $300-$462.50
Complete Driveshaft Assembly with Center Support
Labor Time: 2.5-3 hours
Labor Cost: $312.50-$375
Parts Cost: $300-$800
Total Estimated Cost: $612.50-$1,175
Note: Prices may vary depending on vehicle make and model. Some luxury or heavy-duty vehicles may require specialized parts that could increase costs. All estimates include standard quality replacement parts. Additional repairs may be necessary if related components are damaged.
Common Additional Services:
- Driveshaft Balancing: $75-$150
- U-Joint Replacement: $150-$300
- Driveshaft Inspection: $50-$75
Center Support Bearing Replacement Procedure
The replacement procedure for a center support bearing typically involves the following steps:
1. Initial Inspection and Preparation
Safety First:Ensure vehicle is safely supported on lift or jack stands
Initial Check:Mark driveshaft orientation for proper reassembly
2. Driveshaft Removal
- Remove rear U-joint straps or bolts
- Disconnect driveshaft from rear differential
- Support driveshaft to prevent damage
- Remove front section bolts
- Carefully lower and remove driveshaft assembly
3. Center Support Bearing Replacement
- Remove old center support bearing mounting bolts
- Remove rubber insulator if separate from bearing
- Press out old bearing from housing
- Clean mounting surface thoroughly
- Install new bearing into housing
- Install new rubber insulator if applicable
4. Reassembly
- Reinstall center support bearing assembly to frame
- Align driveshaft according to previous marks
- Reconnect front and rear sections
- Install all U-joint straps and bolts
- Torque all fasteners to manufacturer specifications
5. Final Inspection
Quality Check:
- Verify all bolts are properly torqued
- Check for proper alignment
- Ensure free rotation of driveshaft
- Test drive to verify no vibrations
Note: This procedure may vary depending on vehicle make and model. Always consult your vehicle's service manual for specific instructions and torque specifications.
Average Completion Time:1-2 hours for experienced technicians
Warning: Improper installation can lead to severe driveline vibration and potential safety hazards. Professional installation is recommended.
What is a Center Support Bearing
ACenter Support Bearing, also known as a center support bearing or driveshaft carrier bearing, is a crucial component in vehicles with a two-piece driveshaft. It's designed to support and stabilize the driveshaft at its center point, allowing for smooth power transmission from the transmission to the rear wheels.
Function and Importance:
The Center Support Bearing serves several vital functions:
- Support:It provides essential support to longer driveshafts, preventing sagging and maintaining proper alignment
- Vibration Reduction:Helps minimize driveline vibrations and noise during vehicle operation
- Stability:Ensures stable power transfer from the engine to the wheels
- Load Distribution:Helps distribute the weight and stress of the driveshaft evenly
Signs of Wear:
Common indicators that your Center Support Bearing needs attention include:
- Unusual vibrations at certain speeds
- Clunking or knocking sounds from underneath the vehicle
- Excessive driveshaft movement
- Unusual tire wear patterns
Regular maintenance and timely replacement of the Center Support Bearing is crucial for:
- Maintaining vehicle performance
- Ensuring safe operation
- Preventing more expensive repairs
- Extending driveline component life
Note: Center Support Bearings are typically found in larger vehicles, trucks, and SUVs with longer wheelbases that require a two-piece driveshaft design.
Common Failure Symptoms of Center Support Bearings: Warning Signs to Watch For
Center Support Bearing Failure Signs & Maintenance Guide
Rubber-Mounted Center Support Bearings
Signs of Failure:
- Vibration felt throughout the vehicle, especially at highway speeds
- Clunking or knocking sounds when accelerating or decelerating
- Visible cracking or deterioration of the rubber mount
- Excessive driveshaft movement
- Unusual squealing or whining noises
Service Schedule:
Typically needs inspection every 50,000 miles. Replacement is recommended between 80,000 to 120,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and vehicle usage.
Ball Bearing Center Support
Signs of Failure:
- Grinding or rumbling noise from under the vehicle
- Increased vibration at various speeds
- Metal-on-metal sounds during operation
- Bearing feels rough when rotated by hand
- Visible rust or contamination around the bearing
Service Schedule:
Inspection recommended every 30,000 miles. Replacement intervals vary by manufacturer but typically range from 60,000 to 100,000 miles.
Sealed Center Support Bearings
Signs of Failure:
- High-pitched whining noise
- Increased driveline vibration
- Heat buildup around the bearing assembly
- Seal damage allowing contamination
Service Schedule:
These are designed to be maintenance-free but should be inspected during regular vehicle service. Typical lifespan is 100,000+ miles under normal conditions.
Note: All service intervals are approximate and may need to be adjusted based on driving conditions, vehicle usage, and manufacturer recommendations.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
