Parts for your 2013 Subaru Exiga-Thrust bearing

2013 Subaru Exiga thrust bearing – do you actually need one?

Short answer: a separate, serviceable “thrust bearing” isn’t a thing on the 2013 Subaru Exiga. That model was delivered with automatic transmissions only — the TR690 Lineartronic CVT on most 2.0-litre cars and the 5EAT on turbo variants — so there’s no manual clutch release (throw‑out/thrust) bearing to replace. This is backed by Subaru technical sources: the Exiga YA-series Factory Service Manual (2012–2014) details only CVT and 5EAT units, and the Subaru FAST electronic parts catalogue for 2013 Exiga lists no clutch release bearing assembly because there’s no manual gearbox option.

If someone’s chasing a “thrust bearing” for this car, they’re usually thinking of a manual clutch release bearing — which simply doesn’t apply here. The Exiga does have thrust elements elsewhere, but they’re internal:

• Engine crankshaft thrust surfaces are integrated into the main bearing set (listed in Subaru engine manuals for EJ/FB series). They’re only addressed during an engine rebuild, not routine servicing.
• The CVT and 5EAT contain internal thrust and needle bearings within the transmission. These aren’t external service parts, they’re handled during specialist transmission overhaul.

So, what should owners look at if they’re hearing bearing‑type noises?

• Front-end whirring or rumble that varies with road speed: often wheel bearings.
• Idle or light-throttle whine: can be CVT pulley/belt or torque converter/AT pump noises, get a CVT/auto specialist to assess.
• Accessory area chirps or growls: check the serpentine belt, tensioner and idler pulleys, and alternator bearings.

Good servicing goes a long way. For CVT cars, use the correct Subaru CVTF and follow Subaru’s schedule, many workshops in AU/NZ recommend CVT fluid changes around 60,000–100,000 km depending on usage (towing, heat, hills). On 5EAT autos, keep the ATF fresh, monitor for shudder, and ensure the transmission cooler and radiator are clean and flowing well. Engine thrust bearing checks are only relevant if the engine is being rebuilt or there’s evidence of excessive end float.

Technical references used to reach this conclusion include: Subaru Exiga YA-series Factory Service Manual (2012–2014) — Automatic Transmission/Transaxle sections for TR690 CVT and 5EAT, Subaru FAST Electronic Parts Catalogue for Exiga YA (2013 model year), and Subaru EJ/FB Engine Service Manuals — Main Bearing/Crankshaft Thrust specifications.

FAQs

Does a 2013 Subaru Exiga have a thrust bearing I can replace?
No. There’s no manual clutch release (thrust/throw‑out) bearing on this model because it wasn’t offered with a manual gearbox. Any thrust bearings that do exist are internal to the engine or auto/CVT and aren’t routine service parts.

What noise might be mistaken for a thrust bearing noise on an Exiga?
A growl that changes with road speed is more likely a wheel bearing. A light whine at idle or low speeds can be CVT pulley/torque converter related. Under‑bonnet chirps are often belt, idler or tensioner issues. A workshop familiar with Subaru CVTs and 5EATs can pinpoint it quickly.

What maintenance helps protect the transmission and internal thrust components?
Use the correct Subaru CVTF or ATF, keep fluids clean, ensure the cooler system is healthy, and avoid excessive heat and shock loads. Many AU/NZ workshops suggest CVT fluid service around 60,000–100,000 km depending on use, always follow Subaru guidance and local conditions.