Parts for your 2016 Honda Accord-Thrust bearing

2016 Honda Accord thrust-bearing: what it does and how to look after it

Technical sources agree the 2016 Honda Accord uses a thrust bearing. Honda’s 2013–2017 Accord Service Manual (Engine: K24W 2.4L and J35Y 3.5L, Crankshaft/Connecting Rods section) specifies a crankshaft thrust bearing integrated into a main bearing to control end float. Honda’s parts catalogue for the same models lists thrust-bearing shells/washers for these engines. Manual-transmission variants also use a clutch release bearing (often casually called a “thrust” bearing), while CVT and 6‑speed auto models have internal transmission thrust bearings/washers that aren’t routine service items.

On the Accord, the engine’s thrust bearing keeps the crankshaft centred front-to-back, managing axial loads from the accessory drive, torque converter or clutch action, and the oil pump. It stops the crank walking in the block, which protects the pistons, timing set, and transmission interface. When it’s healthy, you’ll never notice it, when it’s worn, you might get odd noises, shifting issues (manual), or visible crank pulley movement.

There’s no scheduled replacement for the thrust bearing. It’s an internal engine component checked during bottom-end work or when there are symptoms. Good servicing helps it live a long life:

• Use the correct engine oil grade and change it on time. Clean oil maintains the hydrodynamic film the bearing relies on.
• Avoid long idling and high axial loads when the oil is cold. For manuals, don’t rest a foot on the clutch at the lights.
• If fitting a new clutch (manual), ensure proper release bearing/free-play setup so you’re not pre-loading the crank.
• On autos/CVTs, keep the transmission fluid correct and clean, converter/pump thrust and line pressure can add axial load.

When investigation is needed, a technician will measure crankshaft end float with a dial indicator and inspect oil for metallic glitter. Replacement, if required, involves sump-off, bearing cap removal and usually engine-out work to assess the crank’s thrust faces and fit matched main/thrust bearings. It’s not a quick driveway job. If caught early, a thrust-bearing refresh with crank polish may suffice, if left to chew into the block or crank, machining or major overhaul can follow.

Typical warning signs worth a look:

• Rumbling or scraping at idle that changes when the clutch is pressed (manual) or when the A/C or steering loads up.
• Fore–aft crank pulley movement you can see, or a clunk when loading/unloading the drivetrain.
• Unexplained changes in clutch engagement (manual) or odd converter-related vibes (auto).

Look after the fluids, avoid constant axial load, and the Accord’s thrust bearing usually does the distance without fuss.

Popular questions

Does the 2016 Honda Accord have a thrust bearing?
Yes. The K24W four‑cylinder and J35Y V6 engines use a thrust bearing on the crankshaft to control end float. Manuals also have a clutch release bearing (often confused with a “thrust” bearing), while CVT and 6‑speed autos contain internal thrust bearings that aren’t serviced routinely.

What are the symptoms of a worn thrust bearing on a 2016 Accord?
Common clues include a scraping or rumble at idle that changes when the clutch is pressed (manual), visible fore–aft movement of the crank pulley, metallic glitter in the oil, or odd drivetrain clunks when loading and unloading. Any of these warrant an end‑float check with a dial gauge.

Is thrust-bearing replacement part of regular servicing?
No. It’s not a scheduled item. It’s inspected during engine bottom‑end work or if symptoms appear. Good oil, proper clutch setup (manual), and correct auto/CVT fluid help prevent thrust overload and extend bearing life.