Driveshaft & Axle
Driveshaft Bearing
A driveshaft bearing, often called a center support bearing, holds the middle of a two-piece driveshaft in place under the vehicle. We carry 30 driveshaft bearings from $21 to $202 for 1984-2019 vehicles, from Anchor, SKF, Dorman and National, with fits for BMW 335i, 135i and 330i models, Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and S10.
Shop driveshaft bearing by vehicle
DEA Marmon Ride Control Driveshaft Support Bearing W0133-2001045
Fits 2009–2013 models
Dorman Driveshaft Support Bearing W0133-1623837 for Toyota Tacoma
Fits 1999–2007 models
National Driveshaft Support Bearing W0133-2352218 for BMW 135i
Fits 2008–2013 models
National Driveshaft Support Bearing W0133-2352218 for BMW 318i
Fits 1984–2019 models
National Driveshaft Support Bearing W0133-2352218 for BMW 325i
Fits 1994–2016 models
SKF Driveshaft Support Bearing W0133-2001045 for Chevrolet S10
Fits 1991–1993 models
SKF Driveshaft Support Bearing W0133-2001045 for Chevrolet Silverado 1500
Fits 2004 models
Tezuka Driveshaft Support Bearing W0133-1753385 for Toyota Tacoma
Fits 2000–2004 models
What the bearing does
Longer vehicles split the driveshaft into two sections to keep it from whipping at speed. The center bearing sits where the sections meet and is mounted in a rubber cushion bolted to the body or frame. It lets the shaft spin freely while the rubber absorbs vibration. On many BMW models the rear driveshaft uses this design, as do many pickups such as the Tacoma and Silverado 1500 with longer wheelbases.
Symptoms of failure
The rubber cushion cracks and separates with age, letting the shaft move. Common signs include a vibration when pulling away from a stop that fades at higher speed, a clunk when shifting into gear, and a rumble or whine from under the middle of the vehicle. On some trucks a worn center bearing causes a shudder on takeoff with a heavy load. Look for torn rubber, a shaft that moves when you push it, or grease leaking from the bearing.
Choosing and installing
Listings are marked center or rear. Some are a sealed bearing to be pressed onto the shaft, while others include the rubber mount and bracket. Choose your year, make and model and check the fitment table for drive type, cab and bed length. Mark both shaft sections and the yoke before separating them, so the shaft goes back in the same phase. Removing the old bearing usually needs a puller or press. Support the vehicle on stands.
Driveshaft Bearing questions
What does a bad driveshaft center bearing sound like?
Most people notice a rumble or hum from under the middle of the vehicle, along with vibration when accelerating from a stop. A clunk when shifting into drive or reverse is also common.
Can I replace the center bearing without replacing the driveshaft?
Yes, on most vehicles. The bearing is pressed or bolted in place, so you can replace it on its own. Some BMW and truck bearings need a press to remove and install.
Why do I need to mark the driveshaft before removing the bearing?
The front and rear shaft sections are phased so the U-joints cancel each other's vibration. Reassembling them in a different position can cause vibration. Marking them keeps the original alignment.