Parts for your 2013 Honda Stream-Thrust bearing

2013 Honda Stream thrust-bearing — what’s fitted and how to look after it

Based on Honda technical literature for the RN6–RN9 Stream (2012–2014) and parts catalogues, a conventional clutch thrust/throw-out bearing isn’t relevant on most 2013 Honda Stream models, as they were built with a CVT or 5‑speed automatic rather than a manual gearbox. However, the vehicle absolutely does use thrust bearings elsewhere: a front suspension strut top (steering) thrust bearing, and engine crankshaft thrust bearings integrated into the main bearing set. References: Honda Stream (RN6–RN9) Service Manual – Front Suspension and Steering sections, Honda Engine Mechanical (R18A/R20A) sections detailing crankshaft end‑play, Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue listings for the front strut mount bearing.

For owners and workshops, the service-relevant thrust-bearing on a 2013 Honda Stream is the front strut top bearing. Sitting between the spring seat and the strut mount, it lets the MacPherson strut rotate smoothly as the wheels are steered, taking axial loads while cornering and over bumps. When healthy, it keeps steering light and consistent and helps tyres wear evenly.

Signs the strut thrust-bearing is tired include:

• Notchy or heavy steering, especially at low speeds or when parking
• Clunks or creaks from the top of the strut when turning
• Spring “twang” noises as the wheel is steered
• Wandering or uneven front tyre wear

There’s no fixed replacement interval, they’re changed as needed. Many techs replace the thrust-bearing whenever front struts are rebuilt, as the strut has to come out anyway. It’s smart to replace them in pairs and to check the rubber top mounts, bump stops and dust boots while in there.

Practical servicing tips for the Stream’s strut thrust-bearing:

• Use quality OE-equivalent bearings to avoid steering noise returning
• Mark spring orientation and follow the manual’s spring compressor procedure for safety
• Renew any single‑use top nuts and self‑locking fasteners
• Torque the top mount and strut-to-knuckle bolts to spec from the Honda manual
• Book a wheel alignment afterwards to protect tyres and restore straight‑ahead feel

A quick road test on full lock both ways after fitting will catch any notchiness or spring wind‑up. If a Stream presents with steering weight changes after rain, a dry or contaminated thrust-bearing is often the culprit, replacement cures it more reliably than lubrication. Engine crankshaft thrust bearings are internal and only checked during engine rebuilds, they’re not a routine service item on a healthy R‑series engine.

• Does a 2013 Honda Stream have a clutch thrust (throw‑out) bearing?
  Most 2013 Streams are CVT or 5‑speed auto, so there’s no clutch release/thrust bearing fitted. Only a rare manual variant would have one. The thrust-bearing owners will deal with in normal servicing is the front strut top bearing.
• What symptoms point to a worn strut thrust-bearing on a 2013 Stream?
  Expect heavy or notchy steering at low speeds, clunks over bumps while turning, and a “twang” as the front springs wind and release. Uneven front tyre wear and vague on‑centre feel can also show up.
• Should the strut mount be replaced with the thrust-bearing?
  Often yes. If the rubber mount is cracked or perished, do both together. It saves labour and helps keep steering quiet and consistent. An alignment afterwards is recommended.