Parts for your 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer-Thrust bearing

2013 Mitsubishi Lancer thrust-bearing: what it is, where it’s used, and how to look after it

Based on technical references, a thrust-bearing (commonly called the clutch release bearing) is fitted to 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer models with the 5‑speed manual gearbox, and is not used on CVT models. This is supported by Mitsubishi’s Lancer Service Manual (Group 22A—Clutch), which specifies a release bearing for manual transmissions, Mitsubishi’s ASA electronic parts catalogue lists a release bearing for 5‑MT models but none for CVT, and Jatco’s JF011E/RE0F10A CVT technical literature confirms the CVT uses a torque converter, so there’s no clutch release bearing in that driveline. Separately, the Lancer’s 4B11/4B12 engines have crankshaft thrust bearings integrated with a main bearing, but those aren’t a routine service item (Engine Overhaul—Main Bearings and Thrust Clearance in the 4B1 Engine Manual).

For manual Lancer owners, the thrust-bearing’s job is simple but crucial. It rides on the gearbox input sleeve and presses against the clutch diaphragm fingers when the pedal’s pushed, cleanly separating engine power from the transmission so gear changes are smooth. When healthy, it’s quiet and slick. When it’s tired, it can squeal, rumble, or make a chirp as the pedal’s pressed, and you might feel a bit of pedal roughness.

Best practice is to replace the thrust-bearing whenever the clutch is out—typically during a clutch kit upgrade or renewal—because labour is the big cost. Many drivers see 120,000–200,000 km before a clutch job, but city driving, towing, or riding the clutch can shorten that. Go for a quality bearing and fit it as part of a full kit (pressure plate, disc, release bearing, and usually a new pilot/guide where applicable).

Good habits help it last: don’t rest a foot on the clutch at lights, keep free-play and pedal height within spec, and have the hydraulics checked if the bite point goes funky. During service, a technician should lightly lube the release fork pivot and the bearing’s contact points with the fork, and ensure the bearing slides freely on the guide tube with only a smear of the correct high-temp grease—too much grease attracts clutch dust. While the box is out, it’s smart to inspect the rear main seal, gearbox input shaft seal, and the fork/clip condition.

Driving a CVT Lancer and hearing a noise with the pedal? That won’t be a clutch thrust-bearing—have the CVT and engine ancillaries assessed instead.

• Common symptoms: noise only when the clutch pedal is depressed, a rough or notchy pedal feel, difficulty selecting gears.
• Service tip: always align the clutch correctly and verify pedal free-play after reassembly.

FAQs

Does my 2013 Lancer have a thrust-bearing?
If it’s a 5‑speed manual, yes—the clutch release bearing is part of the clutch system. If it’s a CVT, no clutch thrust-bearing is used because the CVT employs a torque converter. The engine does have a crankshaft thrust bearing, but that’s an internal engine component and not part of routine servicing.

How long does a thrust-bearing last, and what are the warning signs?
Many last the life of the clutch—often 120,000–200,000 km—depending on driving style and conditions. Tell-tales include a squeal, chirp, or growl when the clutch pedal is pressed, a shuddery pedal, or baulky shifts. If noises change with pedal movement, the release bearing is a prime suspect.

Can it be driven when the thrust-bearing is noisy?
Short term, gentle driving may be possible, but it’s best to plan a clutch job soon. Leaving it too long risks the bearing seizing and damaging the pressure plate fingers, which can turn a simple clutch kit into a pricier repair.