Parts for your 2016 Honda Cr-v-Thrust bearing

Is a thrust bearing used on the 2016 Honda CR‑V?

Short answer: for the 2016 Honda CR‑V sold in Australia and New Zealand (and most other markets), a clutch thrust/release bearing isn’t fitted because these vehicles are predominantly automatic/CVT, not manual. Honda’s service information for the 2015–2016 CR‑V (RM series) details the HCF‑2 CVT with a torque converter and no clutch pedal, release fork or release (thrust) bearing. Likewise, Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) listings show a clutch release/thrust bearing only under manual transmission sections available in limited markets. If the vehicle doesn’t have a manual gearbox, there’s no clutch thrust bearing to service or replace.

Why it isn’t used comes down to how the transmission works. The CVT/automatic CR‑V uses a torque converter and hydraulically controlled clutches inside the transmission. There’s no external pressure plate to operate, so there’s no need for a throwout or thrust bearing to push on clutch fingers. That’s a manual-only part. On auto/CVT models, driveline smoothness at take‑off is handled by the torque converter and internal components, not a mechanical clutch release system.

It’s also worth noting the term “thrust bearing” can mean other things on a car. The engine has crankshaft thrust bearings integrated into the main bearing set to control end‑float, they’re internal to the engine and only touched during a rebuild. The front suspension top mounts incorporate a bearing that allows the struts to turn smoothly with the steering, that’s catalogued under suspension/strut top mounts rather than as a transmission thrust bearing.

Chasing a noise that sounds like a worn clutch release bearing on a 2016 CR‑V? On auto/CVT cars, common culprits include accessory belt idler/tensioner pulleys, the A/C compressor clutch bearing, alternator bearings, front wheel bearings, or a dry strut top mount bearing. A proper inspection under the bonnet and a road test will usually pinpoint the source without guessing at parts that don’t exist on the vehicle.

• Technical basis: Honda CR‑V 2015–2016 (RM series) Service Manual – Transmission (HCF‑2 CVT) sections, Honda EPC for 2016 CR‑V – clutch release/thrust bearing appears only for manual gearbox variants offered in certain regions.

Bottom line: if the 2016 CR‑V in question is an automatic/CVT as most AU/NZ cars are, a clutch thrust bearing isn’t relevant or used.

• Does a 2016 Honda CR‑V have a clutch thrust bearing?
• What’s making a chirping noise that sounds like a thrust bearing on a 2016 CR‑V?
• Are there any other “thrust‑type” bearings on a 2016 CR‑V?

Does a 2016 Honda CR‑V have a clutch thrust bearing?
For most AU/NZ 2016 CR‑Vs (automatic/CVT), no. A clutch release/thrust bearing only exists on manual transmission versions sold in limited markets. The CVT uses a torque converter and has no clutch pedal or release mechanism.

What’s making a chirping noise that sounds like a thrust bearing on a 2016 CR‑V?
On auto/CVT models, typical suspects are the serpentine belt idler or tensioner pulley, the A/C compressor clutch bearing, alternator bearings, or even a dry front strut top mount bearing. A quick belt-off spin test and a listen at the pulleys can save time and coin.

Are there any other “thrust‑type” bearings on a 2016 CR‑V?
Yes, but not in the clutch. The engine has internal crankshaft thrust bearings (not routine service items), and the front suspension strut top mounts use bearings that allow smooth steering rotation. Those are serviced under suspension, not transmission.