A worn-out center support bearing can lead to some annoying side-effects. The driveshaft on BMWs is broken up into 2 sections. The center support bearing is where the 2 sections meet. It consists of a metal bearing in the middle that is surrounded by vibration-absorbing rubber. As the vehicle ages the rubber becomes weak and rips away from the bearing. The result is a vibration and a bad thumping or knocking sound.
