Parts for your 2016 Nissan Navara-Thrust bearing

2016 Nissan Navara thrust-bearing: what it does and when to sort it

Yes, a thrust-bearing is used on the 2016 Nissan Navara — on manual models it’s the clutch release (thrust) bearing, integrated with the concentric slave cylinder (CSC). This is confirmed in the Nissan Navara D23 Factory Service Manual (CL – Clutch), the Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue listing for “Bearing–Release” within the CSC assembly, and major clutch catalogues (e.g., Exedy) that supply Navara NP300 kits including a release bearing. Automatic models don’t have a clutch thrust-bearing because they use a torque converter, the engine itself does have crankshaft thrust bearings, but those aren’t routine service items.

On a 2016 Navara manual, the thrust-bearing’s job is straightforward: when the driver presses the clutch pedal, hydraulic pressure moves the CSC/release bearing against the pressure plate diaphragm spring to disengage the clutch. A healthy bearing keeps take-up smooth and quiet, helps the ute shift cleanly, and reduces wear on the clutch pack. It lives inside the bellhousing around the gearbox input shaft, so it works hard every time the pedal’s touched — especially in stop–start city driving, off-road manoeuvring, and towing around Aotearoa and Australia.

Because the Navara D23 uses an internal CSC, replacement means removing the gearbox. That’s why most workshops recommend fitting a new thrust-bearing whenever a clutch is replaced. It’s also smart to flush the clutch hydraulic fluid at regular intervals, as moisture and heat are no friends to the CSC seals.

• Common clues it’s on the way out: chirping or squealing when the clutch pedal is pressed, a rough/gritty feel through the pedal, and difficulty selecting gears at a standstill.
• Good habits: don’t ride the clutch at lights, minimise slipping on hills, and keep towing within the ute’s limits.
• Service tips: bleed the system with fresh DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluid at least every 2 years or 40,000 km, check for fluid weep from the bellhousing and soft pedal feel.

There’s no external adjustment on the D23’s CSC. If symptoms show up, plan the job alongside a full clutch kit (pressure plate, disc, CSC/release bearing) and inspect the flywheel for heat spots. Done right, many owners see well over 120,000–200,000 km before the next clutch-out — usage and terrain will swing that either way.

Popular questions

Does an automatic 2016 Navara have a thrust-bearing?
Not a clutch thrust-bearing. Autos use a torque converter, so there’s no release bearing in the bellhousing. The engine does have crankshaft thrust bearings inside the main bearings, but these aren’t serviced unless the engine is being rebuilt.

How can someone tell if the thrust-bearing is failing on a Navara?
Listen for chirping, squealing, or grinding when the clutch pedal is pressed, plus a notchy pedal or trouble selecting first or reverse at a standstill. If the noise changes with pedal movement, the release bearing/CSC is high on the suspect list.

Should the thrust-bearing be replaced with the clutch?
Yes. On the D23 it’s part of the internal CSC, so the gearbox has to come out anyway. Replacing it with the clutch saves double labour and helps ensure smooth, quiet operation after the job. Always bleed with fresh DOT 3/4 fluid.