Parts for your 2009 Honda Accord-Thrust bearing

2009 Honda Accord thrust-bearing — what it does and how to look after it

Yes, a thrust-bearing is relevant to the 2009 Honda Accord. Honda’s factory service information for the 2008–2012 Accord (Engine Mechanical/Cylinder Block) specifies a crankshaft thrust-bearing surface as part of the main bearing set, used to control crankshaft end float. Genuine Honda parts catalogues for both the 2.4‑litre K24 and 3.5‑litre J35 engines list crankshaft thrust washers/bearings. On manual models, the transmission also uses a clutch release (throwout) bearing, sometimes casually called a “thrust” bearing, noted in the Transmission/Clutch sections of Honda’s service literature.

The engine’s thrust-bearing exists to keep the crankshaft from walking fore and aft under axial loads — think clutch engagement on manuals, torque converter and accessory loads on autos. By limiting end float, it protects the oil film at the main journals, keeps the timing set where it should be, and prevents nasty side-loading of the crank and bearings. It’s not a routine service item like a filter, but it’s vital for long engine life.

If someone’s servicing a 2009 Accord, here’s the practical take. The crankshaft thrust-bearing is internal, and replacement is typically done during an engine rebuild or when the bottom end is open for major work. Mechanics will measure crank end float against Honda’s spec and replace the thrust-bearing (and usually all main bearings) if it’s out. Correct orientation of the bearing halves/washers, proper assembly lube, and rechecking end float after torquing the caps are must-do steps from the manual.

• Good habits help the thrust-bearing last: use the correct oil grade and change it on time, avoid riding the clutch pedal on manuals, don’t fit overly aggressive clutch pressure plates without considering added axial load.
• Watch for tell-tales of wear: a change in clutch pedal feel, a dull knock when depressing the clutch (manual), hard shifting, or measurable pulley movement fore/aft. Any of these warrant a professional check.
• Manual Accords: the clutch release bearing is a separate, external service item and is normally replaced with the clutch kit. It’s different from the engine’s thrust-bearing but often confused in naming.

Parts choice matters in Aus/NZ: genuine Honda bearings or reputable brands matched to the engine code are the go. Because access is labour-intensive, bundling thrust-bearing work with other bottom-end or clutch jobs can save a few dollars and downtime.

Popular questions about 2009 Honda Accord thrust-bearing

Does a 2009 Accord actually have a thrust-bearing?
It does. Both the 2.4 K‑series and 3.5 J‑series engines use a crankshaft thrust-bearing surface to control end float, documented in Honda’s engine mechanical service sections and parts catalogues. Manual models also have a clutch release bearing, which some people call a thrust-bearing.

When should the thrust-bearing be replaced?
It’s not a routine interval item. It’s checked during major engine work, replace it if end float is out of spec or the bearing shows wear. On manual cars, the clutch release bearing is replaced whenever the clutch is done.

What are the symptoms of a worn thrust-bearing?
Look for excessive crank end play, a knock when you press the clutch (manual), odd clutch engagement, hard shifting, or noticeable fore/aft movement at the crank pulley. Any of these should prompt inspection by a qualified technician.