Parts for your 2002 Honda Civic-Thrust bearing

2002 Honda Civic thrust bearing — what it does and when to service it

The 2002 Honda Civic does use thrust bearings. In the engine, crankshaft end‑float is controlled by a flanged main/thrust bearing at one of the main journals. On manual‑transmission models there’s also a clutch release (often called a thrust or throwout) bearing inside the bellhousing. These components are documented in the factory 2001–2005 Honda Civic Service Manual (Helm Inc.), which specifies crankshaft end play checks and details the clutch release bearing, and supported by the Honda Common Service Manual and Honda electronic parts catalog listings for thrust/main bearings and the release bearing.

Purpose-wise, the engine’s thrust bearing keeps the crankshaft from walking forwards and backwards under axial loads — think clutch engagement, accessory belt loads, or deceleration. By holding the crank in line, it protects the block, keeps the oil film where it should be, and maintains tidy shifting and clutch feel. The clutch release bearing lets the pressure plate disengage smoothly when the pedal’s pressed, reducing friction and noise at the clutch fingers.

For servicing, the engine thrust bearing isn’t a regular maintenance item, it’s inspected when the bottom end is apart or if end‑float concerns pop up. A dial indicator on the crank pulley with and without clutch pedal load is the proper check, using the end‑play spec in the Honda manual. Replacement is done during an engine rebuild: the cap comes off, the flanged main/thrust shell is renewed, clearances are re‑measured, and all fasteners are torqued to spec with clean oil films.

The clutch release bearing is more of a consumable. Best practice is to replace it whenever the clutch is done. On refit, lightly lube the gearbox input shaft splines with high‑temp moly grease, keep grease off the bearing face, and inspect the release fork and pivot for wear. If the Civic is an automatic, thrust and thrust‑washer elements live inside the transmission and are addressed during a transmission overhaul rather than routine service.

• Common signs to watch: chirping or rumble with the clutch pedal pressed, clutch drag at the lights, hard shifting, or noticeable fore‑aft movement at the crank pulley when the clutch is loaded.
• Gentle clutch use and avoiding riding the pedal go a long way to extending release bearing life, while clean oil and proper clutch adjustment help protect the engine’s thrust bearing.

Popular questions about 2002 Honda Civic thrust bearings

Does every 2002 Civic have a thrust bearing?
Yes. All engines use a thrust/main bearing to control crankshaft end‑float. Manual‑transmission Civics also have a clutch release (throwout) bearing. Automatics don’t have a clutch release bearing, but they do have internal transmission thrust bearings and washers.

When should the clutch release (thrust) bearing be replaced?
It’s typically replaced whenever the clutch is renewed, or sooner if there’s noise with the pedal depressed. Many see 150,000–250,000 km depending on driving style. If the gearbox is out, it’s smart money to fit a new release bearing along with the pressure plate and disc.

What happens if an engine thrust bearing wears out?
Excessive crankshaft end‑play can lead to clutch engagement issues, damaged crank thrust faces, and in severe cases block damage. If end‑float is out of spec, the bearing needs attention during an engine bottom‑end repair before more costly damage occurs.