2016 Dodge Charger Drive Shaft Center Bearing Replacement: A Comprehensive Guide

The drive shaft center bearing in your 2016 Dodge Charger is a critical component that supports the drive shaft and allows it to rotate smoothly. Over time, this bearing can wear out and need to be replaced. Replacing the drive shaft center bearing is a relatively simple process that can be completed in a few hours with the right tools and materials.

Symptoms of a Bad Drive Shaft Center Bearing

There are several symptoms that can indicate a bad drive shaft center bearing, including:

• Vibrations: The most common symptom of a bad drive shaft center bearing is vibrations that are felt through the floorboard or steering wheel. These vibrations can be especially noticeable at higher speeds.
• Noises: A bad drive shaft center bearing can also make noises, such as a grinding or squealing sound. These noises are often heard when the vehicle is accelerating or decelerating.
• Leaking fluid: If the drive shaft center bearing is leaking fluid, it will need to be replaced. The fluid is typically a reddish-brown color.

Tools and Materials Needed

To replace the drive shaft center bearing in your 2016 Dodge Charger, you will need the following tools and materials:

• Floor jack
• Jack stands
• Socket wrench
• 13mm socket
• 15mm socket
• 18mm socket
• 21mm socket
• Torx T30 bit
• New drive shaft center bearing

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Safety First

Before you begin, park your Charger on a level surface and set the parking brake. Allow the engine to cool completely.

2. Lift the Vehicle

Use the floor jack to lift the front of the vehicle. Place the jack stands under the designated jack points and lower the vehicle onto the stands.

3. Remove the Driveshaft

Unbolt the driveshaft from the transmission and differential. You will need to use a 15mm socket for the transmission bolts and a 13mm socket for the differential bolts.

4. Remove the Center Bearing Support Bracket

Unbolt the center bearing support bracket from the frame. You will need to use an 18mm socket for these bolts.

5. Remove the Old Center Bearing

Remove the old center bearing from the support bracket. You will need to use a Torx T30 bit for this bolt.

6. Install the New Center Bearing

Install the new center bearing into the support bracket. Tighten the bolt to 25 ft-lbs.

7. Install the Center Bearing Support Bracket

Install the center bearing support bracket onto the frame. Tighten the bolts to 45 ft-lbs.

8. Install the Driveshaft

Install the driveshaft onto the transmission and differential. Tighten the bolts to 30 ft-lbs.

9. Lower the Vehicle

Lower the vehicle off the jack stands and remove the floor jack.

Troubleshooting

If you are having trouble replacing the drive shaft center bearing in your 2016 Dodge Charger, there are a few things you can check:

• Make sure that the new center bearing is the correct size and type for your vehicle.
• Check that all of the bolts are tightened to the correct torque specifications.
• If you are still having problems, you may need to take your vehicle to a mechanic for further diagnosis.

Cost of Replacement

The cost of replacing the drive shaft center bearing in a 2016 Dodge Charger will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the labor rates in your area. However, you can expect to pay between $200 and $400 for the parts and labor.

Prevention

There are a few things you can do to help prevent the drive shaft center bearing from failing prematurely:

• Avoid driving on rough roads.
• Do not overload your vehicle.
• Have the drive shaft center bearing inspected regularly by a qualified mechanic.

Conclusion

Replacing the drive shaft center bearing in a 2016 Dodge Charger is a relatively simple process that can be completed in a few hours with the right tools and materials. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can save yourself money and keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Effective Strategies for Replacing the Drive Shaft Center Bearing

• Use the correct tools and materials. Using the wrong tools or materials can make the job more difficult and time-consuming.
• Follow the instructions carefully. If you are not sure how to do something, refer to the service manual for your vehicle.
• Take your time. Replacing the drive shaft center bearing is not a difficult job, but it is important to take your time and do it right.
• If you are not sure about something, ask for help. There are many resources available to help you replace the drive shaft center bearing in your 2016 Dodge Charger.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Replacing the Drive Shaft Center Bearing

• Do not use an impact wrench to remove the bolts. This can damage the bolts and make it difficult to remove them.
• Do not overtighten the bolts. Overtightening the bolts can damage the bearing and the surrounding components.
• Do not reuse the old bolts. Always use new bolts when replacing the drive shaft center bearing.
• Do not drive the vehicle with a bad drive shaft center bearing. This can damage the transmission and other components.

Stories About Replacing the Drive Shaft Center Bearing

Story 1

I was driving my 2016 Dodge Charger down the highway when I started to feel a vibration in the floorboard. The vibration got worse as I accelerated, and it was accompanied by a loud grinding noise. I pulled over to the side of the road and called a tow truck. The tow truck driver took my Charger to a mechanic, who diagnosed the problem as a bad drive shaft center bearing. The mechanic replaced the bearing and the vibration and noise went away.

Story 2

I was driving my 2016 Dodge Charger to work when I hit a pothole. I heard a loud bang and felt a vibration in the floorboard. I pulled over to the side of the road and checked the underside of my Charger. I saw that the drive shaft center bearing was broken. I called a tow truck and had my Charger towed to a mechanic. The mechanic replaced the bearing and the vibration went away.

Story 3

I was driving my 2016 Dodge Charger to the grocery store when I started to hear a squealing noise. The noise got worse as I accelerated, and it was accompanied by a vibration in the floorboard. I pulled over to the side of the road and checked the underside of my Charger. I saw that the drive shaft center bearing was leaking fluid. I called a tow truck and had my Charger towed to a mechanic. The mechanic replaced the bearing and the noise and vibration went away.

What We Learn from These Stories

These stories illustrate the importance of replacing the drive shaft center bearing when it fails. A bad drive shaft center bearing can cause vibrations, noises, and fluid leaks. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to have your Charger inspected by a qualified mechanic.

Pros and Cons of Replacing the Drive Shaft Center Bearing

Pros

• Eliminates vibrations, noises, and fluid leaks
• Improves the performance of your Charger
• Saves you money in the long run

Cons

• Can be time-consuming and expensive
• Requires some mechanical skills
• May not be covered under warranty

Call to Action

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of a bad drive shaft center bearing, it is important to have your 2016 Dodge Charger inspected by a qualified mechanic. Replacing the drive shaft center bearing is a relatively simple process that can be completed in a few hours with the right tools and materials. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can save yourself money and keep your vehicle running smoothly.