Parts for your 2013 Toyota Hilux-Thrust bearing

2013 Toyota Hilux thrust bearing (clutch release bearing)

Technical sources confirm the 2013 Toyota Hilux with a manual gearbox uses a clutch release bearing, commonly called a thrust bearing. Toyota’s service information (TIS) clutch section lists and services the “Release Bearing” for KUN/GGN series Hilux models in this era, and the Toyota EPC shows release bearing part numbers applicable by VIN (e.g. 31230‑0K041/‑0K070 among others). Aisin and Exedy clutch kits specified for 2013 Hilux include a new release/thrust bearing as standard kit content. Automatic models don’t have an external, serviceable clutch thrust bearing.

On a manual 2013 Hilux, the thrust bearing lets the clutch pedal movement act smoothly on the pressure plate fingers. It handles axial load while spinning against the clutch cover, so the driver can disengage drive without graunching gears. In everyday terms, it’s what keeps gear changes quiet and pedal action easy.

There’s no fixed replacement interval for the thrust bearing, it’s inspected and usually replaced whenever the clutch is done. Best practice in Australia and New Zealand is to fit a complete clutch kit (friction disc, pressure plate, release/thrust bearing, and spigot/pilot bearing) to avoid pulling the gearbox twice. Quality OE-supplier bearings (Aisin, NSK, Nachi, Exedy) are the go-to choices.

• Common symptoms: a whirring, chirp or squeal when the clutch pedal is pressed, noise that disappears when the pedal is released, a rough or notchy pedal feel, or vibration felt through the pedal.
• Driver habits that help: don’t ride the clutch, and at long lights select neutral and release the pedal rather than holding it down.

When the gearbox is out, a careful check goes a long way. Inspect the release fork, fork pivot and guide tube for wear or scoring. Lightly lubricate the bearing hub and the guide tube with a high‑temp moly or lithium grease—sparingly—and keep grease off the bearing face and clutch friction surfaces. Check the spigot (pilot) bearing in the crank, the clutch fork boot, and the rear main seal for leaks. After refit, set pedal free play correctly and bleed the hydraulics so the engagement point is consistent. Off‑road work, dusty environments, or frequent water crossings can hasten wear or wash out lubricant, so earlier inspection can be wise on vehicles that see that kind of use.

For automatic 2013 Hilux models, there’s no serviceable external clutch thrust bearing, any internal transmission thrust bearings are part of the auto trans assembly and aren’t handled during routine servicing.

Does a 2013 Hilux have a thrust bearing?

Yes—on manual models it’s the clutch release (thrust) bearing. It’s a distinct, serviceable part listed in Toyota’s clutch section and included in reputable clutch kits. Automatic models do not have an external, serviceable clutch thrust bearing.

What noises point to a failing thrust bearing on a 2013 Hilux?

Think whirring, chirping, or a light squeal that starts when the pedal is pressed and fades when released. A gritty pedal feel or vibration under the foot can also hint the bearing is rough. If the noise happens with the pedal up, look elsewhere (e.g. spigot bearing, gearbox input bearing).

Should the thrust bearing be replaced with the clutch?

Absolutely. It’s standard practice to replace the thrust bearing, pressure plate, disc, and spigot bearing together. The extra part cost is minor compared with the labour to pull the gearbox again if the old bearing fails later.