Parts for your 2009 Suzuki Splash-Thrust bearing

2009 Suzuki Splash thrust-bearing

Based on Suzuki’s RB-series service manual, the Suzuki Electronic Parts Catalogue for Splash/Agila B, and the twin-model Opel/Vauxhall Agila B service info, a thrust-bearing (specifically the clutch release/thrust bearing) is fitted to 2009 Suzuki Splash models with the 5-speed manual gearbox. Automatic variants do not use a clutch thrust-bearing. Separately, the engine’s crankshaft uses thrust bearings integrated with the main bearings, but these are not routine service items and are only addressed during engine overhaul.

For manual Splash owners, the thrust-bearing’s job is simple but crucial: it lets the clutch pressure plate disengage smoothly when the pedal’s pressed, taking the axial load and spinning quietly while you shift. When it’s healthy, gear changes feel clean and the pedal action is light. When it’s on the way out, it’ll often make itself known with noise and a gritty pedal feel, especially with the pedal depressed.

Common signs a clutch thrust-bearing needs attention include:

• Chirping, squealing, or growling when the clutch pedal is pressed
• Notchy pedal feel or a pedal that doesn’t return cleanly
• Difficulty selecting gears, particularly first and reverse

It’s not a scheduled service item on its own, but it’s smart practice to replace the thrust-bearing whenever the clutch is out. On a 2009 Splash, that usually means fitting a full clutch kit (cover, disc, release bearing) so everything wears in together. While the gearbox is out, a good workshop will check the release fork, pivot ball, guide tube, input shaft spline condition, and the rear main seal, then apply a light smear of high-temp moly grease to the guide where specified. Over-greasing is a no-no, as fling-off can contaminate the friction surfaces.

Driving style and conditions make a big difference. Lots of stop–start urban kilometres, resting a foot on the pedal, or riding the clutch up hills will shorten bearing life. Many last well past 120,000–180,000 km when treated kindly. Keep the hydraulic system healthy too: if the clutch uses a shared brake fluid reservoir, changing the fluid on time helps prevent a dragging clutch that can overwork the bearing.

If your Splash is an automatic, there’s no clutch thrust-bearing to worry about, any odd noises during shifting are more likely from mounts, drive shafts, or the transmission itself. For manuals, if there’s persistent pedal-down noise, organise an inspection before it escalates to a clutch that won’t disengage cleanly.

Popular questions

Does a 2009 Suzuki Splash have a thrust-bearing?
Manual versions do—it's the clutch release (thrust) bearing that works whenever the pedal is pressed. Automatic models don’t have a clutch thrust-bearing. The engine itself also has crankshaft thrust bearings, but those are only addressed during a full engine rebuild, not routine servicing.

How long should the clutch thrust-bearing last on a Splash?
There’s no fixed interval, but with sensible driving many go 120,000–180,000 km or more. Heavy city traffic, riding the pedal, or towing can shorten its life. Most owners replace it as part of a complete clutch kit when the clutch disc is worn.

Is it safe to drive with a noisy thrust-bearing?
Short-term, gentle driving may be OK, but a noisy bearing can worsen suddenly. If the noise occurs with the pedal depressed, book it in soon. Leaving it too long risks rough engagement, hard shifts, or collateral wear to the pressure plate and guide surfaces—pushing up repair costs.