Parts for your 2007 Toyota Wish-Thrust bearing

2007 Toyota Wish thrust-bearing — what’s actually fitted and what isn’t

Based on Toyota’s own technical literature, a conventional clutch thrust bearing (also called a throwout or release bearing) is not used on the 2007 Toyota Wish. The Toyota Repair Manual/New Car Features (TIS) for the ANE10/ZNE10 series lists the vehicle with automatic (U341E “Super ECT”) and, on some 2.0-litre variants, Super CVT-i (K110) transmissions. The Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue for these frames shows parts groups for automatic/CVT transaxles only, with no clutch cover, release fork or release bearing assemblies. The 2007 owner’s manual and sales data also depict automatic/CVT shift layouts, with no manual option referenced.

Because the 2007 Wish is auto or CVT, it doesn’t need a clutch thrust bearing. Automatics use a torque converter and internal multi-plate clutches, CVTs use a start clutch and push-belt/pulley system. Any thrust control in those units is managed by internal, non-serviceable bearings and thrust washers — not an external release bearing like a manual Corolla would run.

What some owners call a “thrust bearing” on this model is usually one of two different parts:

• Front strut top mount bearing (a thrust-type bearing that lets the strut rotate smoothly as the steering turns).
• Engine crankshaft thrust bearing (built into the main bearings to control crank end-float, not a routine service item).

If the front strut top bearings are the concern, common signs include low-speed creaks, spring “twang” when turning, or notchy steering feel. Best practice is to replace strut mounts/bearings in axle pairs, inspect the upper spring seats and dust boots, and carry out a wheel alignment after refit. Quality OE or reputable aftermarket mounts make a noticeable difference to steering feel and NVH.

For the transmissions actually fitted to a 2007 Wish, fluid condition matters far more than any mythical clutch thrust bearing. Use the correct spec fluid — Toyota ATF Type T-IV for the U341E auto and Toyota CVT Fluid TC for K110 CVT models — and follow the service procedure and intervals noted in the Toyota repair manual or owner’s handbook. That keeps the internal thrust surfaces and bearings healthy over high kilometres, which is especially important for grey-import cars common in Australia and New Zealand.

• Does a 2007 Toyota Wish have a clutch thrust bearing?
  No. It was sold with automatic and some CVT variants only, so there’s no manual clutch release (thrust) bearing fitted.
• What’s the “thrust bearing” people replace on a Wish, then?
  Usually the front strut top mount bearing, which helps the strut turn smoothly with the steering. It’s unrelated to a manual clutch release bearing.
• Which transmissions came in the 2007 Wish?
  Toyota documentation shows a 4‑speed automatic (U341E) on 1.8‑litre models and, on some 2.0‑litre variants, a Super CVT‑i unit (K110). No factory manual is listed for ANE10/ZNE10 series.