Parts for your 2008 Subaru Forester-Thrust bearing

2008 Subaru Forester thrust-bearing

Technical conclusion (with sources): A thrust-bearing is relevant and used on the 2008 Subaru Forester. Manual-transmission models use a clutch release bearing (commonly called a thrust bearing) as documented in the Subaru Factory Service Manual for MY2008 Forester (Clutch System, removal/inspection). The EJ25 engine fitted to 2008 Foresters also incorporates a crankshaft thrust bearing at the No. 5 main journal to control end float, as outlined in the Subaru EJ25 Engine Service Manual (Crankshaft/Thrust Clearance). Exedy’s OE replacement catalogue for Subaru Forester 2.5 (circa 2003–2008) likewise specifies a release/thrust bearing in the clutch kit.

This page focuses on the clutch release (thrust) bearing, as it’s the serviceable item during routine clutch work. On a 2008 Forester with a manual gearbox, the thrust bearing sits on the gearbox input shaft and presses against the clutch pressure plate when the driver pushes the pedal. Its job is to turn that pedal effort into smooth, axial force while spinning at engine speed, so the clutch can disengage cleanly. When it’s healthy, gearchanges are buttery and quiet. When it’s tired, you’ll hear a chirp, squeal or grinding with the pedal depressed, and feel notchiness in the shift.

Servicing is straightforward: the thrust bearing isn’t a scheduled replacement on its own, but it should be renewed any time the clutch is replaced. That’s smart practice because the gearbox is already out—saving big on labour later. A quality bearing and correct lubrication on the clutch fork pivot and the input shaft sleeve (sparingly applied, clutch-safe high-temp/moly grease) help prevent the well-known Subaru “release chirp”. Don’t overdo the grease—excess can contaminate the friction surfaces.

Good cues to book the job are noises with the clutch pedal pressed, a vibration in the pedal, or difficulty selecting gears at a standstill. Many Forester owners see clutch replacement anywhere from 120,000 to 200,000 kilometres depending on driving style, the thrust bearing is replaced at the same time. Avoid riding the clutch at lights and keep the pedal fully down when selecting reverse—both habits prolong bearing life.

Worth noting: automatic 2008 Foresters don’t use a clutch release/thrust bearing, though the engine’s internal crankshaft thrust bearing is present, it’s not a routine service item and is only addressed during engine rebuild work if end float is out of spec.

• Typical symptoms: squeal/chirp with pedal down, rough pedal feel, hard first/reverse engagement.
• Best practice: replace thrust bearing with every clutch kit, inspect fork, pivot, and input shaft sleeve, apply correct grease lightly.
• Urgency: noisy bearings can fail and damage the pressure plate—don’t ignore escalating sounds.

FAQs

Does a 2008 Subaru Forester have a thrust bearing?
Yes. Manual models have a clutch release (thrust) bearing, and all EJ25 engines have an internal crankshaft thrust bearing. The clutch release bearing is the item serviced with the clutch.

What are the signs the thrust (release) bearing needs replacing?
A chirp, squeal, or grinding noise when the clutch pedal is pressed is the classic giveaway. You might also feel a rough or pulsing pedal and notice harder selection of first or reverse. If the noise stops when you release the pedal, the release bearing is the likely culprit.

Can the thrust bearing be replaced without doing the whole clutch?
It can, but it’s rarely cost‑effective. Because the gearbox has to come out either way, most workshops recommend replacing the full clutch kit (disc, pressure plate, release bearing, and pilot bearing/bush) to avoid paying the same labour twice.