Parts for your 2010 Subaru Impreza-Thrust bearing

2010 Subaru Impreza thrust-bearing: what it does, and when to sort it

Yes, the 2010 Subaru Impreza does use a thrust-bearing. In Subaru literature it’s called the clutch release bearing, but in Australia and New Zealand it’s widely known as the thrust-bearing. The Subaru Factory Service Manual (2010 Impreza, Clutch System) specifies the release/thrust-bearing as part of the 5‑speed and 6‑speed clutch release mechanism, with inspection and replacement procedures. Subaru’s engine section also notes a crankshaft thrust bearing surface integrated into the No.5 main bearing on EJ engines, which sets crank end‑float, that’s an internal engine item. For day‑to‑day servicing on a manual Impreza, “thrust-bearing” almost always refers to the clutch release bearing in the bellhousing.

The thrust-bearing’s job is simple: when the clutch pedal’s pressed, it rides the pressure plate’s diaphragm fingers so the clutch can disengage smoothly. When it’s tired, it can get noisy, rough, or sticky, which makes take‑offs feel ordinary and can chew out other clutch bits.

Best practice is to replace the thrust-bearing whenever the clutch is out. Subaru’s service guidance has it paired with a clutch kit (pressure plate, disc, release/thrust-bearing, and pilot bearing/bush). It’s not a lubricate-in-car item, it’s a sealed bearing. During fitment, apply only the specified high‑temp grease sparingly to the release fork pivot, bearing carrier contact points, and the input shaft splines—over‑greasing can fling onto the disc. Also check the guide tube for wear, the fork and clip for fatigue, and the gearbox input shaft for play. If the gearbox is out, it’s a good time to inspect the rear main seal and the clutch fork pivot ball.

Common signs it’s time include:

• Whirring, squeal, or rumble that changes when the clutch pedal is pressed
• Notchy or grabby engagement even with a healthy pedal feel
• Pedal vibration or a rough feel right at the bite point

A competent workshop will follow the Subaru FSM for alignment and torque specs, check crank end‑float if there are concerns about engine thrust loading, and road‑test for quiet, smooth operation. For drivers who baby the clutch and avoid riding the pedal, a quality OE‑spec bearing usually lasts the life of a clutch. If the Impreza is driven hard or tows, expect more frequent clutch‑kit changes and always include the thrust-bearing.

Popular questions

What noises point to a failing thrust-bearing on a 2010 Impreza?
Typically a whirring, chirp, or growl that appears when the clutch pedal is partially or fully pressed and fades when the pedal is released. If the noise is present with the pedal up and disappears when pressed, that’s more likely an input shaft bearing. A good technician will confirm by listening during a stationary rev, pedal in/pedal out test.

Can the thrust-bearing be replaced without removing the gearbox?
On manual 2010 Imprezas, the gearbox (or engine) needs to be separated to access the clutch, so it’s not a quick in‑car swap. Because labour overlaps, replacing the full clutch kit along with the release/thrust-bearing is the most cost‑effective approach.

Should the thrust-bearing be greased during service?
The bearing itself is sealed and not greased externally. Only apply the specified high‑temperature grease lightly to the release fork pivot points, the bearing carrier contact areas, and the input shaft splines. Following Subaru’s FSM guidance prevents clutch contamination and noisy operation.