Parts for your 2007 Mazda Cx-9-Thrust bearing

2007 Mazda CX-9 thrust-bearing: what’s actually fitted (and what isn’t)

Based on Mazda’s own technical literature and drivetrain specs, a conventional clutch thrust-bearing (also called a throwout/release bearing) is not used on the 2007 Mazda CX-9. The 2007 CX-9 was delivered exclusively with a 6‑speed Aisin automatic transmission (Mazda designation AW6A‑EL), so there’s no manual clutch assembly and therefore no clutch thrust-bearing to replace. This is confirmed in the 2007 Mazda CX-9 Workshop Manual sections covering the automatic transmission and in Mazda’s model specifications and owner’s manual for that year.

When people search for a “thrust-bearing” for this model, they’re usually thinking of the manual-clutch release bearing. The CX‑9’s torque converter takes care of launch and creep, and gear changes are managed hydraulically and electronically, so a clutch release/thrust-bearing simply isn’t part of the package.

There are thrust bearings inside the vehicle, but they’re not service items in the way a clutch bearing would be. The V6 engine uses crankshaft thrust bearings (integrated main bearing thrust faces) to control end float, and the automatic transmission and torque converter contain internal thrust/needle bearings. These are internal, lubricated by engine or transmission oil, and only inspected or replaced during an engine or transmission rebuild. They’re not listed as routine service components and there’s no scheduled maintenance for them.

Chasing a noise or vibration that seems like a “thrust-bearing” fault? On a 2007 CX‑9, more likely suspects include:

• Torque converter or automatic transmission whine or shudder, especially if the ATF is old or contaminated.
• Flexplate cracks or loose torque converter bolts (rattles at idle under the bonnet).
• Accessory drive idler/tensioner pulley bearings, alternator or A/C clutch noises.
• Engine mount deterioration leading to harshness under load.
• Front hub wheel bearings causing a road-speed hum.

If a mechanic suspects unusual crankshaft end float, they’ll measure it with a dial indicator and check oil pressure and metal content in the oil. Internal engine or transmission thrust bearings are addressed only if there’s verified wear or damage.

Technical sources referenced: Mazda CX‑9 (2007) Workshop Manual – Powertrain and Automatic Transmission (AW6A‑EL) sections, Mazda CX‑9 (2007) Owner’s Manual and Specifications, Mazda drivetrain technical briefs for the Aisin AW6A‑EL/TF‑80SC family.

Popular questions about 2007 Mazda CX‑9 thrust-bearing

Does the 2007 CX‑9 have a clutch thrust-bearing I can replace?
No. There’s no manual transmission option for the 2007 CX‑9, so it doesn’t use a clutch thrust/throwout bearing. Any “thrust-bearing” listings you see for this model typically don’t apply to the CX‑9’s factory setup.

Can the engine’s crankshaft thrust bearing be serviced during normal maintenance?
Not as a routine item. The crankshaft thrust bearing surfaces are internal to the engine’s main bearings. They’re only inspected or replaced during engine teardown if there are symptoms like abnormal end float, metallic debris in oil, or drivability issues that point to internal wear.

What noises get mistaken for a failed thrust-bearing on a CX‑9?
Common red herrings include torque converter or transmission whine, a cracked flexplate, worn accessory pulleys, or hub wheel bearings. A qualified workshop can isolate the source under the bonnet and on a road test, then confirm with fluid inspection and targeted checks.