Parts for your 2011 Honda Cr-v-Thrust bearing

2011 Honda CR‑V thrust bearing — what it is and when to replace it

Is a thrust bearing relevant to a 2011 Honda CR‑V? Yes. Technical references confirm it’s used in this model. The Honda CR‑V (RE series, 2007–2011) Service Manual details thrust control at the engine’s No. 5 main bearing (crankshaft thrust washers), and front suspension documentation shows a strut top bearing that carries steering load (often called a thrust bearing). Manual‑transmission references also list a clutch release bearing, commonly nicknamed a thrust bearing. These references appear across the Honda CR‑V 2007–2011 Service Manual (Engine Block, Front Suspension, and Clutch sections) and the Honda parts catalogue for the RE series.

For everyday servicing, the “thrust bearing” most owners will actually replace is the front strut top bearing. It lets the MacPherson strut turn smoothly as the wheels steer, supporting vertical load while reducing steering friction. When it wears, the steering can feel notchy or heavy, and you might hear creaks or clunks at low speed or when parking.

There’s no set replacement interval in Honda’s literature for the strut top thrust bearing, it’s done on condition. Good practice is to replace the pair whenever front struts or top mounts are being changed, or if there are symptoms such as:

• Notchy or springy steering return, “memory steer”, or heavy steering at low speed
• Clicking, groaning, or clunking from the top of the strut over bumps or while turning
• Uneven tyre wear caused by the strut sticking instead of rotating smoothly

Replacement is straightforward for a workshop: remove the strut, compress the spring, swap the bearing (often paired with the mount), then reassemble. Both sides should be done together, and a wheel alignment is recommended afterwards. Choose quality parts, cheap bearings can bind or fail early.

A quick note for manual CR‑V owners: the clutch release (thrust) bearing is only relevant on manual gearboxes. If there’s a rumbling noise that changes when the clutch pedal is pressed, that bearing may be the culprit. Because gearbox removal is required, it’s smart to replace the full clutch kit at the same time.

Bottom line: the 2011 CR‑V uses thrust bearings in several assemblies, and the strut top bearing is the one most likely to need attention during normal servicing.

FAQs

Does a 2011 Honda CR‑V have a thrust bearing?
Yes. The model uses thrust control at the crankshaft, a front strut top bearing that carries steering load, and (on manual versions) a clutch release bearing often called a thrust bearing. For routine servicing, the front strut top bearing is the one commonly replaced.

What are the signs the strut top thrust bearing needs replacing?
Tell‑tales include notchy or heavy steering at low speeds, steering that doesn’t centre smoothly, and groans or clunks from the top of the strut while turning or going over bumps. If the strut can’t rotate freely, it can also contribute to odd tyre wear patterns.

Should the thrust bearing be replaced with the struts?
It’s a good idea. While not mandatory, replacing the strut top bearings and mounts when fitting new struts helps restore steering feel and prevents having to pull the suspension apart twice. Always follow with a wheel alignment.