Parts for your 2012 Nissan Navara-Thrust bearing

2012 Nissan Navara thrust-bearing

Yes, the 2012 Nissan Navara uses a thrust-bearing. On manual-transmission D40 models, the clutch release bearing (often called the thrust bearing) is integrated with the concentric slave cylinder (CSC) inside the bellhousing. This layout is documented in the Nissan Navara D40 Service Manual, CL – Clutch section, which shows the CSC/release bearing assembly. The engine itself also uses a crankshaft thrust bearing to control axial movement, outlined in the EM – Engine Mechanical section of the same manual. Common aftermarket fitment guides from clutch manufacturers also specify a CSC/release bearing for 2012 D40 manuals. Automatic models don’t have a clutch release/thrust bearing, but still have the engine’s crankshaft thrust bearing.

For owners of manual 2012 Navaras, the thrust-bearing’s job is to smoothly transfer pedal force to the clutch diaphragm when the pedal’s pressed, so gear shifts stay slick and quiet. Because it’s built into the CSC, it’s a sealed, hydraulic unit—no greasing points, no external adjustment. If it dries out or fails, you’ll usually hear a chirp or rumble when the clutch is depressed, feel notchiness in the pedal, or spot brake/clutch fluid weeping from the bellhousing.

Service-wise, it’s smart to think of the thrust-bearing as a “while you’re in there” part. Whenever the clutch is out for a disc or pressure plate replacement, fit a new CSC/release bearing at the same time. It saves labour down the track and restores pedal feel. The clutch hydraulic fluid shares the same DOT 3/4 spec as the brakes, so a fluid flush every 24 months helps protect the CSC seals and keeps engagement consistent.

• Listen for noise with the clutch pedal depressed, silence with pedal up and noise with pedal down points to the release/thrust bearing.
• Check for fluid leaks at the bellhousing, any sign of fluid usually means the CSC seal has failed and the bearing unit should be replaced.
• When replacing: choose quality OEM or reputable aftermarket kits, replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, CSC/release bearing, and pilot bearing together, resurface the flywheel if required, and bleed the hydraulic system with fresh fluid.

Note: The engine’s crankshaft thrust bearing isn’t a routine service item. It’s inspected during engine work if there’s abnormal crank end-float or clutch drag issues that aren’t traced to the release system.

Popular questions

What are the symptoms of a failing thrust-bearing on a 2012 Navara?
Typical signs include a chirp, squeal, or rumble when the clutch pedal is pressed, a rough or notchy pedal, and sometimes fluid weeping from the bellhousing if the CSC seal is gone. If the noise disappears when the pedal is released, the release/thrust bearing is a prime suspect.

Do automatic 2012 Navaras have a clutch thrust-bearing?
No. Auto models don’t use a clutch release/thrust bearing because there’s no manual clutch. They still have an engine crankshaft thrust bearing, but that’s internal to the engine and not part of routine servicing.

How much does it cost to replace the thrust-bearing/CSC?
Parts for a quality CSC/release bearing typically run a few hundred dollars, and many owners opt for a full clutch kit (disc, pressure plate, CSC, pilot bearing). With labour, expect a ballpark of several hours’ work, so budgeting for a clutch job plus CSC in Australia or New Zealand is common. Prices vary by workshop, region, and whether the flywheel needs machining or replacement.