Parts for your 2015 Holden Colorado-Thrust bearing

2015 Holden Colorado thrust-bearing: what it is, whether it’s used, and how to look after it

Based on workshop literature and parts catalogues, the 2015 Holden Colorado with the 6‑speed manual gearbox uses a clutch release (thrust) bearing integrated into a concentric slave cylinder (CSC) inside the bellhousing. Automatic models don’t use a clutch thrust-bearing because they run a torque converter. Technical sources referenced include:

• GM Holden RG Colorado Service Manual (Clutch/Transmission): Concentric Slave Cylinder and Release/Thrust Bearing.
• Exedy Australia Clutch Catalogue for Holden Colorado RG 2.8L (2012–2016), specifying kits with CSC/release bearing.
• ACDelco/GM Genuine Parts catalogue listing the clutch actuator/release bearing assembly for RG Colorado manual models.

On manual 2015 Holden Colorado models, the thrust-bearing is the hardworking middleman between the clutch pedal and the pressure plate. It sits around the gearbox input shaft as part of the concentric slave cylinder and presses smoothly on the diaphragm fingers to disengage the clutch. That lets the driver select gears cleanly without graunching, while the bearing itself absorbs the axial load so the clutch action stays light and predictable.

There’s no scheduled maintenance for the thrust-bearing itself because the CSC/release unit is sealed. The best care comes from keeping the hydraulic system healthy—use the correct brake/clutch fluid, keep it clean, and bleed the system if the pedal feels spongy. It’s also smart driving: avoid resting a foot on the clutch, especially when towing or on hills, and try not to slip the clutch for long periods. Heat and riding the pedal are the fastest ways to shorten a thrust-bearing’s life.

When it’s time for servicing, techs generally treat the thrust-bearing as a “replace on access” item. Because the gearbox has to come out to reach it, most workshops will renew the CSC/release bearing whenever the clutch cover and disc are replaced. That saves paying labour twice and heads off leaks or noise later on. While they’re in there, it’s common to check the flywheel face (and dual-mass condition where fitted), the pilot bearing/bush, and the rear main seal. Fresh gearbox input shaft grease (sparingly, where specified) and correct torque on the pressure plate bolts help ensure a quiet, smooth pedal feel after refit.

• Typical warning signs: a chirp, squeal, or growl when the clutch pedal is pressed, fluid weeping from the bellhousing, a heavy or notchy pedal, clutch drag when selecting first or reverse.
• Best practice: replace the CSC/thrust-bearing with the clutch kit and bleed the hydraulic system thoroughly.

Note: Automatic 2015 Colorados don’t have a clutch thrust-bearing, noises on those vehicles will relate to other components such as the torque converter, accessory bearings, or idlers.

Popular questions

Is a thrust-bearing fitted to every 2015 Holden Colorado?
Manual models, yes—the thrust-bearing is integrated into the concentric slave cylinder. Automatics don’t use one because they have a torque converter instead. This lines up with Holden’s service manual and clutch kit listings that include a CSC/release bearing only for manual variants.

Can the thrust-bearing be replaced without changing the clutch?
It can, but it’s rarely cost‑effective. Because the gearbox has to come out to access the CSC/release bearing, most workshops recommend replacing the clutch disc and cover at the same time if they’re worn. That approach reduces labour costs over the long run and helps prevent coming back for a second gearbox removal.

What noises point to a worn thrust-bearing versus a gearbox bearing?
A thrust-bearing typically makes noise when the clutch pedal is depressed—think chirp, squeal, or rumble that fades when the pedal is released. An input shaft or gearbox bearing more often whines with the pedal up and may change with vehicle speed or gear. Proper diagnosis saves guesswork and parts.