Parts for your 2006 Toyota Blade-Thrust bearing

2006 Toyota Blade thrust-bearing: used or not?

For the 2006 Toyota Blade, a traditional clutch thrust-bearing (also called a release bearing) isn’t used. The Blade was launched in Japan on the E150 platform with the 2.4‑litre 2AZ‑FE paired to an Aisin K310 Super CVT‑i, and the later Blade Master G ran the 3.5‑litre 2GR‑FE with a U660E 6‑speed automatic. Neither drivetrain uses a manual clutch, so there’s no clutch thrust/release bearing to service or replace.

Technical sources backing this up include the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalog (EPC) for models AZE154H (2AZ‑FE) and GRE156H (2GR‑FE), which list the K310 CVT and U660E automatic transaxles with no manual transmission or clutch release components, Toyota Service Information (TIS) repair manuals for the Blade/Auris E150 platform, which contain CVT and automatic transaxle sections but no clutch overhaul for Blade models, and Aisin New Car Features documentation for the K‑series CVT indicating a torque converter start device rather than a dry clutch and release bearing.

Why it isn’t used on the 2006 Blade is straightforward: the K310 CVT employs a torque converter to couple the engine to the transmission, and the U660E is a conventional torque‑converter automatic. Both designs eliminate the need for a pedal‑operated clutch and its release (thrust) bearing. If someone’s hunting for a “thrust bearing” because of a whirring or rumbling noise under the bonnet, it’s more likely to be one of the following:

• CVT or automatic transmission pump/input bearing noise
• Serpentine belt idler/tensioner or alternator bearing
• A/C compressor clutch/pulley bearing
• Wheel hub bearing noise that changes with road speed

There is a different “thrust” component inside the engine: crankshaft thrust bearings (thrust washers) that control end‑float. These are part of the main bearing set and aren’t a routine service item. They’re only inspected or replaced during an engine rebuild or if there’s measurable axial play, clutch‑like knock when shifting from Park to Drive (auto), or metal in the oil.

Practical servicing tip for owners: focus on timely fluid care. For CVT models, use the correct genuine Toyota CVT fluid and service at sensible intervals (often 60–90,000 km in local conditions). For U660E automatics, use Toyota WS fluid and keep cooling systems healthy. If a noise is present, a proper diagnosis under load with a mechanic’s stethoscope and scan‑tool line‑pressure checks will save guesswork and parts swapping.

FAQs

Does the 2006 Toyota Blade have a clutch thrust bearing?
No. The 2006 Blade with the 2AZ‑FE runs a K310 CVT, and the later V6 uses a U660E automatic. Both use a torque converter, so there’s no manual clutch or release (thrust) bearing fitted.

What noises get mistaken for a thrust bearing on a Blade?
Common culprits are CVT/auto pump whine, serpentine belt idler or alternator bearings, A/C compressor pulley noise, or wheel hub bearings. A proper workshop inspection will pinpoint the source.

Are there any thrust bearings in the Blade at all?
Yes, the engine has crankshaft thrust bearings (part of the main bearing set). They aren’t serviced routinely and are only addressed during engine repair if crankshaft end‑float is out of spec.