Parts for your 2013 Mazda Cx-9-Thrust bearing

2013 Mazda CX-9 Thrust-Bearing — What It Does and When It Matters

Technical documentation for the 2013 Mazda CX-9 confirms a thrust bearing is indeed used on this model. The Mazda Workshop Manual for the 3.7L MZI V6 identifies the crankshaft thrust bearing as part of the main bearing set, controlling end float. Transmission literature for the Aisin AW6A-EL six-speed automatic also notes internal thrust/needle bearings and thrust washers inside the transaxle, however, these are not routine service items. There is no manual clutch release (throwout) bearing on this vehicle because it’s automatic.

In the CX-9’s V6, the crankshaft thrust bearing’s job is to keep the crank from moving fore and aft under axial loads – think torque converter push, accessory belt loads, and the transmission’s axial forces. By limiting end play, it protects the crankshaft, main bearings, timing components, and the transmission’s pump from misalignment and excess wear.

For servicing, the thrust bearing isn’t a scheduled maintenance replacement. It’s inspected when diagnosing engine end-play concerns or during bottom-end work. Engine-out and crankshaft removal are required for replacement, and bearing clearances/end float must be measured to factory specifications with proper tools (dial indicator, plastigauge as applicable) per workshop procedures.

• When to investigate: unusual forward/back movement of the crank pulley or flexplate, metallic scraping at idle that changes with converter load, erratic belt alignment, or transmission pump whine after major drivetrain work.
• Good practice: if the engine sump is off for other reasons, check crank end play against Mazda specs, look for thrust face scuffing on the relevant main bearing shells and crank cheeks.
• Causes of wear: contaminated or low oil, prolonged harsh converter loads, or incorrect assembly clearances in prior repairs.

If thrust wear is found, the cure is not a quick in-car fix. A proper repair involves replacing the main bearing set (with thrust flanges) and verifying the crankshaft thrust surfaces are within spec. Any axial load contributors should be addressed too—confirm converter fitment, flexplate runout, and transmission alignment. Routine oil changes with the correct viscosity and quality are the best prevention, keeping the bearing faces lubricated and debris-free over high kilometres.

Popular questions about 2013 Mazda CX-9 thrust-bearing

Does a 2013 Mazda CX-9 have a thrust bearing?
Yes. The 3.7L MZI V6 uses a crankshaft thrust bearing integrated into the main bearing set to control end float. The six-speed automatic has internal thrust/needle bearings, but there’s no clutch release bearing because the CX-9 is automatic-only.

What are the symptoms of a worn thrust bearing on a CX-9?
Possible signs include noticeable in–out movement of the crank pulley or flexplate, a scraping or rubbing noise at idle that changes with gear engagement, unusual belt tracking, or transmission pump whine. Verification requires measuring crankshaft end play against factory spec.

Is thrust-bearing replacement part of regular servicing?
No. It’s not a routine service item. It’s inspected during engine bottom-end repairs or if end-play issues arise. Replacement requires engine disassembly, new main bearings with thrust faces, and careful measurement and cleanliness throughout the build.