Parts for your 2009 Honda Odyssey-Thrust bearing

2009 Honda Odyssey thrust-bearing: what’s on the car and how to service it

Based on Honda’s factory Service Manual for the 2005–2010 Odyssey platform (Steering/Front Suspension and Engine sections) and Honda’s Electronic Parts Catalogue for the 2009 model year, the vehicle does use thrust bearings. There are two relevant places: a strut top “thrust” bearing in each front suspension strut mount (to let the strut rotate smoothly when steering), and an engine crankshaft thrust bearing integrated into the main bearing set (to control crank end-float). The 2009 Odyssey’s 5‑speed automatic transmission means there is no clutch release/throw‑out (often called “thrust”) bearing. These points are also reflected in common service databases used in workshops.

For owners and workshops, the serviceable thrust-bearing on a 2009 Honda Odyssey is the front strut mount bearing. Its job is simple but critical: carry the vehicle’s front corner load while allowing the strut and spring to rotate freely as the wheels steer. When it’s in good nick, steering feels light and consistent, tyre wear stays even, and there’s no groaning or notchy feel at the wheel.

As these bearings age (often beyond 120,000–160,000 km, or sooner on rough roads), they can bind or develop play. Common signs include heavy or “steppy” steering at low speed, creaks or clunks when turning the wheel or going over speed humps, a tendency for the wheel to not self-centre, and feathered wear on the front tyres. If the bearing starts to seize, the spring winds up and releases with a twang as you steer—classic strut top noise under the bonnet.

Replacement is straightforward workshop work but does require spring compression. Best practice on this Odyssey is to:

• Replace strut mount bearings in pairs, and consider new top mounts and dust boots while you’re there.
• Inspect the struts for leaks or weak damping, if they’re tired, fit complete assemblies to save time.
• Torque all fasteners to Honda spec and book a wheel alignment straight after.

The engine’s crankshaft thrust bearing isn’t a routine service item, it’s checked during engine rebuild or if there’s excessive end-float symptoms (e.g., noticeable crank movement or abnormal noises). For day‑to‑day servicing, focus on the front strut thrust bearings—they’re the ones that keep the Odyssey’s steering smooth and predictable across Aussie and Kiwi roads.

Technical sources referenced: Honda Odyssey (2005–2010) Factory Service Manual—Steering/Front Suspension: Front Shock Absorber/Strut Mount Bearing, Engine: Crankshaft/Main Bearings (thrust control). Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue (2009 Odyssey): Front shock absorber/strut top components listing the mount bearing. Automatic Transmission section confirms no clutch release/throw‑out bearing on this model.

Popular questions

Does a 2009 Honda Odyssey have a clutch thrust/release bearing?
No. It uses a 5‑speed automatic with a torque converter, so there’s no manual clutch or release (throw‑out) bearing. The “thrust” bearings you’ll encounter are the front strut mount bearings and the engine’s crankshaft thrust bearing.

What are the symptoms of a worn strut thrust bearing on a 2009 Odyssey?
Owners usually notice notchy or heavy steering at parking speeds, clunks or groans from the top of the strut when turning, and sometimes uneven front tyre wear. You might also feel the wheel resist returning to centre after a turn.

Should strut thrust bearings be replaced on their own?
They can be, but many workshops replace the bearing together with the top mount and, if the struts are tired, fit complete assemblies. Doing both sides and getting an alignment helps restore steering feel and tyre life.