Propshaft centre bearing failure
When the propshaft centre bearing on this 2006 VW Touareg failed, producing a loud knocking noise from the centre of the vehicle, we were surprised to find that our local factor did not stock a replacement unit. The local main dealer did, but was charging £700.
Deciding that there must be a better way, we discovered that another local factor did carry the centre bearing at a cost of £76.
The propshaft appears to be sealed in the centre, making it seemingly difficult to replace just the bearing a difficult job. However, splitting the shaft simply involves gently prising off the metal collar securing the drive boot, then carefully pulling back the boot to reveal the circlip securing the front shaft to the joint in the rear shaft.
Once this circlip is released, the two shafts can be separated after marking their position. The bearing and centre carrier can then be tapped off the front shaft. The metal collar can be re-affixed by gently peening over the edges. The collar has a built-in rubber seal, so provided the edges are peened over sufficiently, it will not leak grease.