Parts for your 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander-Thrust bearing

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander thrust-bearing — what’s fitted and what’s not

For a 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander, a clutch thrust bearing (also called a clutch release bearing) is fitted to manual-transmission variants, and not used on CVT/automatic models. This is backed by Mitsubishi’s factory workshop literature for the ZJ/ZK Outlander platform (Clutch section lists a release bearing for 5‑speed and 6‑speed manuals), the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue (release bearing shown for manual transaxle models, none for CVT), and Jatco CVT8/JF016E technical documentation used in Outlander CVT models (no external clutch release/release “thrust” bearing in the driveline). Note: the engine’s crankshaft has internal thrust bearings within the main bearing set, but these are not service items during routine servicing.

For Outlanders with a manual gearbox, the thrust bearing’s job is simple and vital: it transfers pedal force to the pressure plate fingers, letting the clutch disengage smoothly so gears can be selected without graunching. When it’s healthy, pedal feel is light and engagement is clean, when it’s tired, drivers may notice a whirring, chirping or growling noise that changes when the clutch pedal is pressed.

This bearing is sealed and not meant to be lubricated in-service, so the smart move is to replace it whenever the clutch is out. Most workshops in Australia and New Zealand will fit a complete clutch kit (disc, pressure plate and release/thrust bearing) because labour to access the clutch is the big ticket. Expect clutch life to vary widely with use, but many owners see 120,000–200,000 km if driven sensibly.

Good servicing habits for a manual 2013 Outlander include gentle clutch use, avoiding riding the pedal, and checking for noise only under load changes (clutch in vs clutch out). If any bearing-type noise appears when the pedal is depressed, get it inspected before it takes out the pressure plate fingers.

• Replace the thrust bearing whenever the clutch is replaced.
• Inspect clutch fork, pivot ball and guide tube, replace worn bits.
• Check hydraulics (master/slave cylinder) for leaks and free travel.
• Use quality parts and follow torque specs from the Mitsubishi workshop manual.

Own a CVT Outlander? There’s no clutch thrust bearing in that setup. Clutch-type noises there are more likely CVT pulley/bearing issues or ancillary components, so diagnosis follows a different path.

Does a 2013 Outlander have a thrust bearing?

Yes on manual models (5‑speed petrol and 6‑speed diesel), no on CVT/automatic models. Manuals use a clutch thrust/release bearing, CVTs don’t have a clutch to operate. The engine’s internal crankshaft thrust bearings exist on all engines but aren’t routine service items.

What are the common signs of a worn thrust bearing?

A light whirring, chirp or growl that appears or gets louder when the clutch pedal is pressed, not when released. Pedal feel can turn notchy, and in advanced cases the clutch may disengage unevenly. Any noise that changes with pedal position is worth a prompt check.

How much to replace the thrust bearing on a manual Outlander?

Because the gearbox has to come out, most workshops quote a clutch kit. In Australia and New Zealand, parts and labour typically land somewhere around AUD/NZD $900–$2,000 depending on engine, drivetrain and parts choice. A proper quote will factor in flywheel condition and any fork/pivot wear.