Parts for your 2013 Subaru Forester-Thrust bearing

2013 Subaru Forester thrust-bearing: what it is, when it’s fitted, and how to look after it

Per Subaru’s own technical documents, a thrust-type clutch release bearing is used on 2013 Forester models fitted with the manual transmission, and it is not used on automatic (4EAT) or Lineartronic CVT versions. This is set out in the Subaru Forester SH (MY2013) Service Manual, Clutch System section (listed as “release bearing”), and confirmed by the Subaru parts catalogue diagrams for the clutch assembly. The Automatic Transmission and CVT service sections show no clutch release bearing because those drivetrains use a torque converter, not a manual clutch.

For owners of a manual 2013 Forester, the thrust (release) bearing is the hard-working bit that lets the clutch disengage smoothly. When the pedal is pressed, the clutch fork pushes the release bearing against the pressure plate’s diaphragm spring. That bearing carries the axial (thrust) load and spins freely, so the engine can remain turning while the gearbox input stops, letting gears engage without a grind. Subaru labels it a “release bearing” in the service manual, but in practical terms it’s a thrust-bearing doing axial load duty under load every time the clutch is used.

It’s a sealed unit, so there’s no routine greasing. Instead, good servicing focuses on inspection and smart replacement timing. If the clutch is out, replace the release bearing as a matter of course—along with the clutch disc, pressure plate and pilot bearing. Lightly lubricate the input shaft splines with the specified high-temp moly grease and check the clutch fork pivot and retaining clips. Bleeding the hydraulic clutch circuit and inspecting the slave cylinder for leaks help keep pedal feel consistent and reduce shock loads on the bearing.

Tell-tale signs the bearing’s on the way out include a chirp, squeal or rumble that appears when the clutch pedal is depressed and often disappears when it’s released. A rough, notchy feel through the pedal can also hint at internal bearing wear. Because replacement is a gearbox-out job, most workshops recommend doing the full clutch kit and having the flywheel checked or machined at the same time. Sticking with quality OEM-spec parts keeps the Forester shifting cleanly, and it saves paying twice for the same labour down the track.

For automatic and CVT 2013 Foresters, there’s no clutch release thrust-bearing fitted. If there’s a drivetrain noise, diagnosis will centre on the torque converter, pulleys, or driveline bearings rather than a clutch-related bearing.

• Fitted on: 2013 Forester with manual gearbox (release/thrust bearing)
• Not fitted on: 2013 Forester with 4EAT auto or Lineartronic CVT
• Best practice: Replace with the clutch kit, inspect fork, pivot, hydraulics

FAQs

Does every 2013 Subaru Forester have a thrust-bearing?
Manual models do—Subaru lists it as the clutch “release bearing” in the 2013 Forester service manual. Automatic and CVT versions don’t have one because they use a torque converter. There is also an internal crankshaft thrust bearing inside the engine, but that isn’t a routine service item.

What noises point to a worn thrust (release) bearing on a 2013 Forester?
A chirp, squeal or low growl that appears only when the clutch pedal is pressed is classic release bearing noise. It may be quiet at cruise and then protest at traffic lights when the pedal is held down. If the noise is there regardless of pedal position, the issue is likely elsewhere.

Should the thrust-bearing be replaced on its own?
It can be, but it’s smarter to replace the full clutch kit (disc, pressure plate, release bearing and pilot bearing) while the gearbox is out. The extra parts add little compared to the labour, and it helps ensure a fresh, smooth clutch feel for years.