Parts for your 2015 Mitsubishi Asx-Thrust bearing

2015 Mitsubishi ASX thrust bearing — what’s fitted and what to service

Based on Mitsubishi technical literature — the ASX/RVR/Outlander Sport Workshop Manual (Clutch section, 2013–2017 coverage), the Jatco CVT service information, and the Mitsubishi ASA parts catalogue — a thrust bearing (also called a clutch release bearing) is fitted to 2015 Mitsubishi ASX models with a manual gearbox. It is not present as a serviceable part on CVT-equipped ASX models, which use a different driveline layout without a conventional clutch assembly.

For manual variants, the thrust bearing sits between the clutch fork and the pressure plate’s diaphragm spring. Its job is to transmit axial force while spinning freely, so the driver can disengage the clutch smoothly when the pedal is pressed. When healthy, it helps deliver light pedal effort, clean gear changes, and quiet operation. When worn, it can get noisy, rough, or even seize — which can escalate to poor shift quality or damage to the clutch pressure plate.

There’s no fixed replacement interval in the manuals, technicians typically replace the thrust bearing any time the clutch is out, because the gearbox must be removed to access it. That makes it smart preventive maintenance to install a new bearing with a new clutch kit.

• Common signs it’s on the way out: a whirring, chirping, or growling noise with the clutch pedal depressed, a change in pedal feel, or vibration through the pedal during take-off.
• Good workshop practice during clutch service: renew the thrust bearing, inspect the clutch fork, pivot ball, and input shaft guide tube for wear, lightly lubricate the guide surfaces with the correct high-temp grease, and check the clutch hydraulics for leaks and proper operation.
• Driving and conditions matter: frequent stop–start city running or towing can age the bearing faster. Coastal exposure can add corrosion risk, so listen for early noise and act promptly.

For CVT ASX models, a separate thrust (release) bearing isn’t used. The CVT’s torque transfer and launch hardware differ from a manual clutch, so there’s no external, serviceable clutch release component. Any axial bearings within the CVT are internal transmission parts handled during specialist CVT repair, not routine servicing.

Owners of 2015 ASX manuals after quiet, reliable shifting should budget for a new thrust bearing whenever the clutch is replaced and choose quality OEM-equivalent parts. It’s a small add-on that prevents repeat labour and keeps the ASX feeling crisp on the road.

• Does a 2015 Mitsubishi ASX have a thrust bearing?
• What are the symptoms of a failing thrust bearing on an ASX?
• Should the thrust bearing be replaced with the clutch?

Does a 2015 Mitsubishi ASX have a thrust bearing?
Yes on manual models, no on CVT models. Manuals use a clutch release (thrust) bearing to disengage the clutch. CVT variants don’t have a serviceable thrust bearing because they don’t use a conventional clutch assembly.

What are the symptoms of a failing thrust bearing on an ASX?
Noise with the clutch pedal depressed (whirring, chirp, or growl), a change in pedal feel, vibration through the pedal, and occasionally difficulty engaging gears smoothly. If the noise occurs only when the pedal is down, the release bearing is a prime suspect.

Should the thrust bearing be replaced with the clutch?
Yes, it’s best practice. Access requires gearbox removal, so replacing the bearing whenever the clutch is renewed avoids paying labour twice and helps ensure quiet, smooth operation after the job.