Parts for your 2006 Honda Cr-v-Thrust bearing

2006 Honda CR‑V thrust bearing — what it does and when to sort it

Based on Honda’s 2002–2006 CR‑V Service Manual for the K24 engine (crankshaft/main bearings section) and the Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue (clutch group: “Bearing, Release”), the 2006 Honda CR‑V absolutely uses thrust bearings. Every K‑series engine has a crankshaft thrust bearing integrated into the No. 5 main bearing cap, and 5‑speed manual models also run a clutch release (often called “thrust”) bearing. Automatic models don’t have a clutch release bearing, but still rely on the engine’s crankshaft thrust bearing.

In the engine, the thrust bearing controls the crankshaft’s end‑float (fore‑and‑aft movement). It takes axial loads from the accessory drive and the transmission, keeping the crank centred so oil clearances stay happy and the rotating assembly doesn’t scrub hardware it shouldn’t. If end‑float grows beyond the spec in the Honda workshop manual, you can get odd noises, clutch bite point shifts under load, or metal in the oil — that’s rebuild territory, not routine servicing.

On manual 2006 CR‑V models, the clutch release (thrust) bearing lets the pressure plate disengage smoothly when the driver presses the pedal. It’s a small, hard‑working bearing that only spins when the clutch is operated. Tell‑tale signs it’s had enough include a chirp, whirr, or rumble that changes when the clutch pedal is pressed, not at steady cruise. A graunchy pedal feel or tricky gear engagement can join the party.

Servicing tips: the engine’s thrust bearing isn’t a scheduled service item — it’s inspected during bottom‑end work with a dial gauge to confirm end‑float against Honda’s spec in the service manual. If it’s out, the correct repair is main bearing service/rebuild with proper measurement and cleanliness.

For manual cars, always replace the release bearing whenever the clutch is done. It’s inexpensive compared with the labour, and most quality clutch kits include one. While you’re in there, inspect the release fork and pivot, check the slave cylinder for leaks, apply the correct high‑temp moly lube to the input shaft splines sparingly, and have the flywheel resurfaced if needed. After reassembly, bleed the clutch hydraulics thoroughly for a light, consistent pedal.

Owners of automatic CR‑Vs can ignore the clutch thrust bearing chat, but they still benefit from regular fluid services and keeping an ear out for unusual engine noises — anything suggesting axial movement deserves a professional look and a manual‑spec measurement.

• Fitted: Engine crankshaft thrust bearing (all 2006 CR‑V)
• Fitted: Clutch release/thrust bearing (manual only)
• Not fitted: Clutch release/thrust bearing on automatics

Popular questions

Does a 2006 Honda CR‑V have a thrust bearing?
Yes. All engines have a crankshaft thrust bearing. If it’s a 5‑speed manual, it also has a clutch release (thrust) bearing. Automatic models do not use a clutch release bearing, as they have a torque converter instead.

What are the signs a clutch thrust/release bearing is failing?
Listen for a chirp, squeal, or rumble that appears or changes when the clutch pedal is pressed. You might also feel a rough pedal or notice gear changes getting notchy. If the noise is present with the pedal up and disappears when you press it, that often points to something else (like the input shaft bearing), so a proper diagnosis helps.

Should the release bearing be replaced with the clutch?
Absolutely. It’s standard practice to replace the release bearing whenever the clutch is renewed. The parts cost is small compared with the labour, and it helps ensure a quiet, smooth clutch for the long haul.