Parts for your 2017 Mitsubishi Asx-Thrust bearing

2017 Mitsubishi ASX thrust bearing — what it is, who needs it, and how to look after it

Based on Mitsubishi technical literature for the GA-series ASX (RVR/Outlander Sport), the 2017 ASX fitted with the 5‑speed manual transmission uses a clutch release (thrust) bearing as part of its clutch assembly. This is detailed in the Mitsubishi Motors Workshop Manual (Group 22A: Clutch) and corroborated by the Mitsubishi electronic parts catalogue, which lists a release bearing for manual-transmission ASX variants. By contrast, 2017 ASX models with the CVT don’t have a clutch release/thrust bearing because the CVT drivetrain uses a torque converter and does not employ a manual clutch assembly, this usage difference is also reflected in the owner’s manual and CVT service sections.

On a manual 2017 ASX, the thrust bearing’s job is simple but vital: it lets the clutch pressure plate be disengaged smoothly when the driver presses the pedal. It rides on the gearbox input shaft collar and transfers the push from the clutch fork to the rotating pressure plate without adding nasty friction or noise. When it’s healthy, gear changes feel clean and light, when it’s not, drivers might notice a whirring or chirping noise with the pedal down, a notchier shift, or a pedal that feels rough or graunchy.

Service-wise, there’s no set interval to replace a thrust bearing on the ASX. It generally gets renewed whenever the clutch is done, because the gearbox is already out and access is easy. Most workshops will fit a complete clutch kit (disc, pressure plate, release/thrust bearing) and inspect the release fork, pivot/ball, guide tube (snout), and rear main seal while they’re in there. Light, correct-spec high-temp grease on the fork contact points and the guide tube is a must—no over-greasing—and keep lubricant off the friction surfaces.

If the ASX shows symptoms, it’s best to act before the bearing degrades further and risks damaging the pressure plate fingers. A quick rule of thumb: if the noise appears with the clutch pedal depressed and disappears when released, the release/thrust bearing is suspect, if it’s the other way round, think input shaft bearing. City driving with lots of stop–start can shorten life a bit, while mainly open-road use tends to be kinder.

Owners of CVT-equipped 2017 ASX models don’t need to worry about a clutch thrust bearing at all. Their servicing focuses instead on scheduled CVT fluid changes and software updates—no clutch, no release bearing, no pedal.

• Common signs of a worn thrust bearing: noise with pedal down, rough pedal feel, vibration during disengagement.
• Best practice during clutch work: replace the bearing as part of a kit, inspect fork/pivot/guide tube, check for oil leaks, and bleed the hydraulics.

FAQs

Does a 2017 Mitsubishi ASX with CVT have a thrust bearing?
No. The CVT versions use a torque converter and don’t have a manual clutch, so there’s no clutch release (thrust) bearing to service or replace. Maintenance centres on CVT fluid and software, not clutch hardware.

How long does a thrust bearing last on a manual 2017 ASX?
It varies with driving style and conditions, but many last the life of the clutch—often 120,000–200,000 km or more. They’re typically replaced with the clutch kit during a gearbox-out job to keep everything fresh and avoid repeat labour.

What’s the difference between a bad thrust bearing and a bad input shaft bearing?
A failing thrust bearing usually makes noise when the clutch pedal is pressed and quietens when released. An input shaft bearing tends to do the opposite—noisy with the pedal up (clutch engaged) and quieter when the pedal is down.