Parts for your 2016 Mitsubishi Asx-Thrust bearing

2016 Mitsubishi ASX thrust bearing: what it is, where it’s used, and when to replace it

Based on technical sources, the 2016 Mitsubishi ASX does use a thrust bearing — specifically a clutch release (throw‑out) bearing — on models fitted with the 5‑speed manual transmission. This is documented in Mitsubishi Motors’ Factory Service Manual for GA2W/GA3W (Group 22A – Clutch) and the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue, which list a clutch release bearing as part of the manual clutch release mechanism. By contrast, ASX models with the CVT (Jatco RE0F10A/RE0F10D family) or the 6‑speed automatic don’t use a clutch thrust/release bearing because those transmissions use a torque converter and have no clutch pedal or pressure plate to actuate, as described in Jatco CVT service literature.

For owners of a 2016 ASX manual, the thrust bearing’s purpose is simple: it lets the clutch release smoothly. When the clutch pedal’s pressed, the bearing slides on the guide tube and pushes on the pressure plate’s diaphragm fingers, taking up the load while spinning so there’s no metal‑on‑metal grind. A healthy bearing keeps engagement quiet and smooth, a tired one can make every take‑off feel a bit rough around the edges.

There’s no scheduled maintenance just for the thrust bearing. It lives inside the bellhousing, so it’s normally replaced whenever the clutch is out. Practical servicing advice for a manual ASX:

• Replace the thrust bearing whenever the clutch disc/pressure plate are changed — the labour overlaps, and new bearings are inexpensive insurance.
• Lightly lubricate the guide tube, fork pivot and fork contact points with the specified high‑temp grease, keep grease off the bearing face and friction surfaces.
• Inspect the clutch fork, pivot ball and guide tube for wear, and check the release fork spring clip is snug.
• Bleed the clutch hydraulics and refresh fluid while you’re there, a clean, well‑bled system helps pedal feel and release.
• Avoid riding the clutch. Resting a foot on the pedal can preload the bearing and shorten its life.

Common signs the thrust bearing’s on the way out include a chirp, whirr or growl that appears when the clutch pedal is pressed and disappears when it’s released, a pulsing pedal, or notchy engagement. If noises are present, it’s smart to plan a clutch‑out inspection — and if the disc has decent life left, the bearing can be replaced on its own, but most techs will recommend doing a full clutch kit to avoid paying for the same labour twice.

If the ASX is a CVT or conventional auto, a clutch thrust bearing isn’t fitted or needed, because the torque converter handles take‑off and there’s no manual clutch to release.

Popular questions

Does my 2016 Mitsubishi ASX have a thrust bearing?
If it’s a 5‑speed manual, yes — it uses a clutch release (thrust) bearing inside the bellhousing. If it’s a CVT or 6‑speed auto, there’s no clutch thrust bearing because those transmissions use a torque converter and don’t have a manual clutch. The engine itself does have crankshaft thrust bearings, but they’re internal to the engine and not a routine service item.

What are the symptoms of a failing thrust bearing on an ASX manual?
Listen for a chirp, squeal, whirr or growl that occurs only when the clutch pedal is pressed. You might feel vibration through the pedal or get notchy, rough engagement. If the noise stops when you release the pedal, the thrust bearing is a prime suspect.

Can the thrust bearing be replaced without changing the clutch?
It can, but most workshops recommend replacing the clutch disc and pressure plate at the same time if they’re part‑worn. The gearbox has to come out either way, so doing a full kit now often saves another labour bill down the track.