Parts for your 2013 Toyota Camry-Thrust bearing

2013 Toyota Camry thrust bearing: what’s actually fitted and how it’s looked after

Based on Toyota technical literature (Toyota Camry 2012–2014 Repair Manual for 2AR‑FE/2GR‑FE engines, Engine/Mechanical sections covering “Inspect Crankshaft Thrust Clearance”) and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalog, the 2013 Camry is fitted with a crankshaft thrust bearing (thrust washers integrated with the centre main bearing). Aisin service data for the U660E/U760E automatic transmissions used in this model also shows internal thrust bearings/washers inside the gearbox. There isn’t a separate clutch thrust/release bearing on local 2013 Camry models because they were sold with automatic or e‑CVT drivetrains.

A thrust bearing in the 2013 Camry’s engine keeps the crankshaft located fore‑and‑aft, preventing axial “walk” when the torque converter, accessory drive, and combustion loads try to push it around. By controlling end float, it protects the oil pump gears, timing drive, and transmission interface, and helps the engine maintain a stable idle and clean shift feel. In the Camry’s 2AR‑FE four‑cylinder and 2GR‑FE V6, the thrust surfaces are part of the main bearing set, bathing in engine oil and relying on proper lubrication to stay happy.

It isn’t a regular service item like pads or filters. In normal Aussie and Kiwi use, it’s only inspected if the sump’s off or the engine is being rebuilt, or if there are signs of excess end float. Techs check crankshaft end play with a dial indicator against Toyota’s spec in the repair manual. If wear is confirmed, the fix is to replace the thrust‑equipped main bearing shells (and often the full main set), then re‑measure. Bearing grade selection and cleanliness matter, and the crank thrust faces must be inspected for scoring.

Prevention is largely about oil and accessory setup. Stick to the specified oil grade and intervals, use quality oil and filters, and avoid running low on oil. Don’t overtension the drive belt, an over‑tight belt can add needless axial load. If the transmission is out, a good workshop will also check flexplate and converter alignment so no extra thrust is shoved into the crank.

• Possible warning signs: glitter in the oil, a faint fore‑aft clunk at idle with load changes, or measurable end float beyond spec.
• What not to expect: there’s no separate “clutch thrust bearing” to replace on these autos.

When replacement is needed, it’s a bottom‑end job best left to a workshop with the right measuring gear and access to Toyota specs and bearing grades.

FAQs

Does a 2013 Toyota Camry have a thrust bearing?
Yes. Toyota’s repair manual and parts catalog show a crankshaft thrust bearing (thrust washers integrated with the centre main bearing) in the 2AR‑FE and 2GR‑FE engines. The Aisin automatic transmission also contains internal thrust bearings, but there’s no separate clutch release/thrust bearing because these cars weren’t sold locally with a manual gearbox.

When should the thrust bearing be replaced on a 2013 Camry?
It’s not routine maintenance. It’s inspected if there are end‑float concerns, metal in the oil, or the engine is being rebuilt. Replacement happens during bottom‑end work, following Toyota’s end‑float measurements and bearing grade selection in the repair manual.

What symptoms point to thrust bearing wear on this model?
Tell‑tales can include excessive crank end float on measurement, fine metallic debris in the oil, a subtle axial knock with load changes at idle, or repeat accessory belt alignment issues. Proper diagnosis involves measuring end play with a dial indicator against Toyota’s specification.