Parts for your 2008 Subaru Impreza-Thrust bearing

2008 Subaru Impreza thrust-bearing: what it is, and how to look after it

Based on the Subaru Factory Service Manual for MY2008 Impreza (Engine and Clutch sections), the Subaru FAST parts catalogue, and common OEM clutch listings (e.g., Aisin/Exedy kits for GE/GH Impreza), a thrust-bearing is absolutely relevant on the 2008 Subaru Impreza. Manual-trans models use a clutch release bearing (often called a thrust bearing), and all EJ-series engines in this model year have a crankshaft thrust bearing integrated into the main bearings to control end-float.

On a manual 2008 Impreza, the thrust-bearing (release bearing) sits on the gearbox input shaft and presses against the clutch pressure plate fingers when the clutch pedal’s down. Its job is simple but critical: let the rotating clutch assembly be pushed smoothly without metal-on-metal carnage. When it wears, it can squeal, rumble, or give a rough, notchy feel through the pedal. On autos, there’s no clutch release bearing, but the engine still relies on a crankshaft thrust bearing to keep the crank from walking fore and aft.

For day-to-day ownership, there’s not much “maintenance” for the release bearing—it's a sealed unit. The smart play is preventive: replace it whenever the clutch is out. Most techs in Aus and NZ will fit a complete clutch kit (pressure plate, disc, release bearing, and usually a pilot bearing) and inspect the fork, pivot ball, and clips. A tiny smear of high-temp moly grease on the input splines and fork contact points helps, but keep grease off the friction surfaces. If the bearing has been noisy, it’s worth checking the clutch hydraulic operation and making sure the bearing slides freely on a clean, unscored snout.

The crankshaft thrust bearing isn’t a routine service item. It’s addressed during an engine rebuild or if there are signs of excessive end-float—think odd clutch engagement changes, accessory belt pulley movement when the clutch is pressed, or lower-end knocks. If suspected, end-float is measured against the spec in the Subaru FSM and the bearing is renewed as part of a bottom-end service.

• Replace the release (thrust) bearing with the clutch—it’s cheap insurance.
• Use quality OEM-equivalent parts and follow FSM torque specs and alignment procedures.
• Chasing squeals or rumbles that change with the clutch pedal? Start with the release bearing.

Done right, a fresh thrust-bearing helps the 2008 Impreza shift cleanly and stay drama-free for many more kilometres.

Popular questions

Does a 2008 Subaru Impreza have a thrust-bearing?
Yes. Manual models use a clutch release (thrust) bearing, and all engines have a crankshaft thrust bearing. Automatic models don’t have a clutch release bearing, but the engine’s thrust bearing is still present and essential for crankshaft end-float control.

What are common symptoms of a worn thrust-bearing on a 2008 Impreza?
With a manual, listen for squealing, chirping, or a low growl that changes when the clutch pedal is pressed. You might also feel roughness in the pedal. Engine thrust-bearing issues are less common and show up as abnormal end-float signs—changes in clutch bite point, accessory pulley movement when the pedal’s pressed, or noises from the lower end.

Should the thrust-bearing be replaced on its own or with the clutch?
Best practice is to replace the release bearing with the full clutch kit. Labour overlaps heavily, and doing it together avoids paying twice. Add-ons worth considering are the pilot bearing/bush, fork clips, pivot, and a flywheel resurface if needed.