Parts for your 2014 Lexus Is-Thrust bearing

2014 Lexus IS thrust bearing: what it is, where it lives, and how to look after it

Technical sources confirm a thrust bearing is used on the 2014 Lexus IS. The Lexus IS 250/350 (4GR‑FSE and 2GR‑FSE) and IS 300h (2AR‑FSE) engines specify crankshaft thrust clearance checks in the factory Repair Manual, and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue lists a “BEARING, CRANKSHAFT, THRUST (No. 3)” or thrust washer set for these engines. Lexus New Car Features also shows the 2014 IS range was automatic or e‑CVT only, so there’s no manual clutch release (often called “thrust”) bearing. In short: engine thrust bearings are fitted, a clutch thrust bearing isn’t.

On this model, the thrust bearing is part of the engine’s main bearing set (typically at the No. 3 main journal). Its job is to control the crankshaft’s end float, taking axial loads from the torque converter, accessory belt pull, and normal engine thrust forces. When healthy, it keeps the crank centred so oil seals, timing gear, and the serpentine belt all run true.

It’s not a routine service item, but it absolutely benefits from good servicing habits. Fresh, correct‑spec engine oil (0W‑20 or 5W‑30 per engine and climate) and timely filter changes protect the thrust faces. If the car tows, sees lots of hot summer kilometres, or does short trips, shorten oil intervals. Keep an eye on ATF condition in the auto/e‑CVT too—excessive converter load from transmission issues can add unnecessary thrust load to the crank.

Replacement is generally an engine‑out or sump‑down job during a rebuild or when investigating bottom‑end wear. A technician will measure crank end float with a dial gauge, inspect for copper/metal in the oil, and check main bearing clearances. If thrust faces are worn, the correct grade bearings (Toyota colour coding) are installed, main cap bolts torqued in sequence, and end float re‑verified. It’s precise work—use assembly lube, keep everything spotless, and follow the Lexus torque/angle specs.

Worth noting: the front strut top on the IS uses a support bearing to let the spring/strut rotate smoothly. That “strut thrust” bearing is separate from the engine part and is a normal service item if you’ve got notchy steering or a clunk over bumps.

• Watch for: serpentine belt wander, repeated front crank seal leaks, end‑float clunk at idle, or metallic debris in oil.
• Service tip: stick to quality oil, correct viscosity, and sensible change intervals to keep the thrust faces happy.

Popular questions

Does a 2014 Lexus IS have a clutch thrust (release) bearing?
Not on this generation. The IS 250/350 use conventional automatics and the IS 300h runs an e‑CVT, so there’s no manual clutch release bearing. If someone mentions a thrust bearing on these cars, they’re almost always talking about the engine’s crankshaft thrust bearing or the strut top support bearing.

How long should the engine thrust bearing last on a 2014 IS?
With regular oil changes and the right viscosity, it’s designed to last the life of the engine. Failures are rare on well‑maintained 2GR‑FSE, 4GR‑FSE, and 2AR‑FSE engines. If end float grows due to severe wear, you may notice abnormal noises, belt misalignment, or metal in the oil—time to get it checked properly.

Are steering clunks related to the engine thrust bearing?
Usually not. Steering clunks or notchy feel are more often the front strut top support bearing or mount. That’s a separate part in the suspension and is serviced independently of the engine. If steering’s binding or noisy at low speeds, have the strut tops inspected before blaming the engine.