Parts for your 2016 Mazda Cx-9-Thrust bearing

2016 Mazda CX-9 thrust bearing — is it actually a thing?

Short answer: a standalone “thrust bearing” isn’t a fitted or serviced part on the 2016 Mazda CX-9. Technical documentation for the second‑generation CX‑9 (TC, launched 2016) shows it was built exclusively with Mazda’s six‑speed SKYACTIV‑DRIVE automatic, which uses a torque converter and planetary gearsets — there’s no manual clutch, and therefore no clutch release/thrust bearing to replace. This is confirmed by Mazda’s CX‑9 workshop manual sections covering the automatic transaxle, and by Mazda AU/NZ model specifications listing an automatic only lineup.

When people search for a “thrust bearing”, they often mean the clutch release (throw‑out) bearing used on manual transmissions. Because the CX‑9 is auto‑only, that part simply doesn’t exist on this vehicle. If a catalogue shows a thrust bearing for a 2016 CX‑9, it’s almost certainly a generic listing or a data mismatch.

Worth noting for the technically curious, the CX‑9 does have components where “thrust” control exists, but not as a stand‑alone service item labeled “thrust bearing” for this model:

• Engine: The crankshaft’s axial movement is controlled by thrust faces integrated into the main bearings (engine section of the Mazda workshop manual). These aren’t a routine service item and are addressed only during an engine rebuild.
• Turbocharger: The Skyactiv‑G 2.5T’s turbo has internal journal/thrust bearings within the CHRA, the OEM service approach is to replace the turbocharger assembly rather than service the internal bearings.
• Front suspension: The MacPherson strut top uses a strut mount/bearing to allow smooth steering rotation. Mazda labels this as a strut mount/bearing, not a “thrust bearing”, and it’s serviced as part of the front shock absorber assembly.

So, if the goal is preventative maintenance on a 2016 CX‑9, the smart play is to focus on what’s actually relevant: correct ATF service as specified, timely engine oil changes (critical for turbo health), and inspecting strut top mounts/bearings if there’s notchy steering or a groan at low‑speed turns. That’s the stuff that’ll keep a CX‑9 feeling tight and happy on Kiwi and Aussie roads.

Popular questions about 2016 Mazda CX‑9 thrust bearing

Does the 2016 CX‑9 have a clutch thrust/release bearing?
No. Every 2016 CX‑9 is equipped with a six‑speed automatic, so there’s no manual clutch and no release (thrust) bearing to service or replace. Any listing suggesting otherwise is likely a catalogue error.

Are there thrust bearings inside the engine or turbo, and do they need servicing?
The engine’s crankshaft thrust control is built into the main bearings, and the turbo uses internal thrust/journal bearings. These aren’t routine service items, follow oil‑change intervals with the correct spec oil and address any faults by component diagnosis — the turbo is typically replaced as an assembly if its bearings fail.

Could a “bearing” up front cause steering noise on a CX‑9?
Yes, but it’s the strut mount/bearing at the top of the MacPherson strut, not a clutch thrust bearing. If you hear a creak, groan, or a notchy feel when turning the wheel at parking speeds, have the front strut mounts/bearings inspected and replaced if worn.