Parts for your 2008 Holden Commodore-Thrust bearing

2008 Holden Commodore thrust-bearing — what it is, whether it’s fitted, and how to look after it

Based on technical references including the GM Holden VE Commodore Service Manual (Clutch/Concentric Slave Cylinder and Release Bearing sections), the Tremec TR‑6060 service literature (V8 manual models), and Aisin AY6 service information (V6 manual models), a thrust-bearing—more commonly called the clutch release bearing—is fitted to 2008 Holden Commodore manual variants. On these cars it’s integrated with a hydraulic concentric slave cylinder. Automatic models don’t use a clutch thrust/release bearing, though all engines (High Feature V6 and LS‑series V8) do have internal crankshaft thrust bearings that aren’t routine service items.

For owners of a manual 2008 Commodore, the thrust-bearing’s job is simple but crucial: it lets the clutch disengage smoothly when the pedal’s pressed. The bearing sits around the gearbox input shaft and applies even, low-friction force to the clutch pressure plate’s fingers via the hydraulic concentric slave cylinder. That delivers a light pedal, clean gear changes, and less wear on the clutch hardware.

Because the release bearing is housed with the slave cylinder inside the bellhousing, access requires removing the gearbox. That’s why it’s smart to replace the bearing/C.S.C. assembly whenever the clutch is out, even if it’s only slightly worn. Genuine-quality parts and fresh fluid go a long way toward keeping the pedal feel consistent and the release quiet.

• Common signs it’s on the way out:
  • Whirring, chirping, or rumbling that changes when the clutch pedal is depressed
  • A notchy or pulsing pedal feel
  • Clutch drag or hard-to-engage gears, especially first and reverse
  • Hydraulic fluid weeping from the bellhousing (failed C.S.C. seal)
• Good service habits:
  • Replace the release bearing/C.S.C. with the clutch kit
  • Flush and bleed the hydraulic system with quality DOT 4 brake fluid
  • Inspect the clutch fork/pivot (where fitted), pilot bearing/bush, and input shaft splines
  • Check the flywheel and pressure plate for heat spots or cracking

There’s no fixed kilometre interval just for the thrust-bearing, as its life depends on driving style and traffic. Many owners choose to refresh it with the clutch somewhere between 100,000–180,000 km, or sooner if there’s noise or leakage. If the pedal feel changes or there’s a new noise that comes and goes with the pedal, it’s worth booking an inspection. Catching a failing release bearing early can prevent collateral damage to the pressure plate and save a second gearbox-out job.

Popular questions about 2008 Holden Commodore thrust-bearing

Does every 2008 Commodore have a thrust-bearing?
Manual models do—it's the clutch release bearing integrated with the concentric slave cylinder. Automatic variants don’t have a clutch release bearing, though the engine itself still has internal crankshaft thrust bearings that aren’t serviced during routine clutch work.

What noise does a worn thrust-bearing make?
Typically a whirring, chirping, or growling that appears when the clutch pedal is pressed and fades when it’s released. If the noise changes with pedal position, the release bearing is a prime suspect. Constant noise regardless of pedal position may point elsewhere (e.g., gearbox input bearing).

Should the concentric slave/release bearing be replaced with the clutch?
Yes. Because the bearing and slave are inside the bellhousing, replacing them with the clutch saves paying for another gearbox removal later. It’s also a good time to bleed the hydraulics and inspect the pilot bearing and flywheel.