Parts for your 2004 Honda Elysion-Thrust bearing

2004 Honda Elysion thrust-bearing — is it actually a thing on this model?

Short answer: for the 2004 Honda Elysion, a clutch-style thrust bearing (often called a release bearing) isn’t used. Technical references including Honda’s 2004 Elysion model specifications for Japan and the Honda 5‑speed automatic transmission service data show the Elysion was delivered with a torque‑converter automatic only, not a manual gearbox. With no clutch assembly, there’s no clutch thrust/release bearing to fit.

Parts catalogues often label a “thrust bearing” as the clutch release bearing, which is spot on for manual Hondas — just not for the Elysion. If someone’s chasing a noise or vibration and thinks it’s a thrust bearing, it’s usually another component in the driveline or front end.

Worth noting: the Elysion’s engines (K24A 2.4L and J‑series V6 used in the range) do have an internal crankshaft thrust bearing surface integrated into a main bearing, as documented in Honda engine service manuals for the K24A and J‑series. That’s a purely internal part to control crank end‑float. It isn’t inspected or replaced during routine servicing, it’s addressed only during an engine rebuild when clearances are measured and bearings are selected by grade.

Why the clutch thrust bearing isn’t used on the Elysion comes down to the transmission layout. The 5‑speed auto with a torque converter and flexplate takes care of coupling and disengagement, so there’s no pressure plate or release mechanism that would require a thrust/release bearing. Honda’s parts cataloguing for the Elysion confirms there’s no separate release/thrust bearing listed for the transmission.

• If you’re hearing noises at idle or under load, common culprits include the torque converter, accessory pulleys and belts, A/C clutch, engine or transmission mounts, or wheel bearings.
• For shifting quirks, start with fresh Honda‑spec ATF and a proper level check before assuming a bearing fault.

Technical sources referenced: Honda Elysion 2004 model catalogue/specifications (Japan), Honda 5‑speed automatic transmission service manual used with K‑series/J‑series applications, Honda K24A and J‑series engine service manuals detailing crankshaft thrust bearing surfaces, Honda electronic parts catalogue for Elysion indicating no clutch release/thrust bearing listing.

Popular questions

Does a 2004 Honda Elysion have a clutch thrust/release bearing?
No. The Elysion was sold with a torque‑converter automatic only, so there’s no manual clutch and no clutch release (thrust) bearing. Any catalogue entry for a thrust bearing on this model is generally a mismatch or meant for manual‑equipped Hondas.

Does the Elysion engine have a thrust bearing inside it?
Yes. The K24A and J‑series engines use thrust faces on a main bearing to control crankshaft end‑float. It’s internal and checked only during an engine rebuild, not part of routine servicing. If crank end‑play is suspected, a proper measurement against the service manual spec is required.

What noises get mistaken for a thrust bearing on an Elysion?
Commonly: torque converter rumble, A/C clutch chatter, idler/tensioner bearings, alternator or water pump bearings, and front wheel bearings. Start with a careful listen under the bonnet, then road test at different speeds and loads, and check ATF condition and engine mounts before diving deeper.