Parts for your 2016 Subaru Impreza-Thrust bearing

2016 Subaru Impreza thrust-bearing: what it does, and when to service it

Based on the Subaru Factory Service Manual for the 2016MY Impreza (FB-series engine and Clutch/Manual Transmission sections) and Subaru’s parts catalogue, the 2016 Subaru Impreza is fitted with two relevant thrust-bearing types: an engine crankshaft thrust bearing (integrated into the main bearing set on the FB20) and, on 5-speed manual models, a clutch release bearing often called a “thrust” or “throw-out” bearing. CVT models don’t use a serviceable clutch release bearing, but they still have the engine’s crankshaft thrust bearing.

The thrust-bearing in the FB20 engine controls crankshaft endfloat so the crank can’t walk fore and aft under clutch, accessory, and combustion loads. It rides on a thin oil film, keeping things silky and preventing metal-to-metal contact. On manual Imprezas, the clutch release (thrust) bearing lets the clutch fork smoothly press the diaphragm spring when the pedal’s down, so gear changes are quiet and drama-free.

For most owners, the clutch release bearing is the one they’ll actually service. It’s a wear item and should be replaced any time the clutch is out. Best practice is to fit a complete clutch kit (pressure plate, friction disc, release bearing, and typically pilot/guide bearing) to avoid mixing old and new parts. A light smear of the specified high-temp grease on the bearing guide tube and fork pivot is fine—don’t overdo it. If the car has a CVT, there’s no clutch release bearing to replace.

• Typical clutch release bearing symptoms: chirping, squealing, or growling when the clutch pedal is pressed, vibration through the pedal, notchy engagement.
• Good habits: don’t ride the clutch at lights, keep the pedal freeplay per spec, and sort any hydraulic issues promptly.
• Engine thrust-bearing notes: it isn’t a routine service item. If there’s suspected endfloat or bottom-end noise, the check is a precise measurement job and any replacement is engine-out, following FSM specs for clearances and torque sequences.

When booking a clutch on a manual 2016 Impreza, it’s smart to add the release bearing, inspect the fork and pivot, and replace the rear main seal and gearbox input seal while access is easy. It saves dollars and grief down the track.

Does a 2016 Subaru Impreza have a thrust bearing?

Yes. Every 2016 Impreza (FB20) has a crankshaft thrust bearing inside the engine. Manual models also have a clutch release (thrust) bearing, CVT models do not have a serviceable clutch release bearing.

What are the signs of a bad clutch thrust bearing on a 2016 Impreza?

Listen for chirping, squealing, or a growl that appears when the clutch pedal is pressed and vanishes when released. You may also feel a rough or pulsing pedal and notice notchy engagement. If it’s noisy, plan a clutch job with a new release bearing.

When should the clutch release bearing be replaced?

Any time the gearbox is out, and always with a new clutch kit. If it’s already noisy, don’t wait—continued driving can mark up the pressure plate fingers. CVT owners can skip this, there’s no clutch release bearing on those cars.