Parts for your 2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse cross-Thrust bearing

2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Thrust-Bearing

Looking for a thrust-bearing for a 2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross? Based on factory documentation and powertrain design, a traditional clutch thrust-bearing (also called a release or throwout bearing) is not fitted to this model. Technical sources including the Mitsubishi Motors Eclipse Cross (GK) Workshop Manual – Transmission section, Mitsubishi Australia/NZ specification sheets for the 2017 launch models, the Jatco CVT8 (JF016E/JF017E) technical description, and the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue for GK-series all show the Eclipse Cross was delivered with INVECS-III CVT (belt-type continuously variable transmission) and, in some markets later, a conventional automatic – neither uses a manual clutch assembly or a clutch thrust-bearing.

Why isn’t it used? The CVT in the Eclipse Cross uses a torque converter and hydraulically controlled pulleys to vary ratio. There’s no manual pressure plate or clutch fork to actuate, so there’s no need for a clutch release/thrust bearing. Shifting and take-off are managed by the transmission’s valve body and control unit, not by a pedal-operated clutch.

What about other “thrust” bearings on the vehicle? Two places sometimes cause confusion:

• Engine crankshaft thrust bearings (thrust washers) control end-float inside the 1.5L turbo petrol engine. They’re internal components, only inspected or replaced during an engine rebuild—there’s no routine servicing item called a thrust-bearing for owners.
• Front strut top bearings allow the MacPherson struts to rotate smoothly when steering. These are usually supplied as part of, or alongside, the strut mount. They’re not the clutch thrust-bearing people search for, but if there’s groaning or notchy steering at low speeds, the strut top bearings and mounts may need attention.

So, for anyone maintaining a 2017 Eclipse Cross in Australia or New Zealand, there’s no clutch thrust-bearing to replace during regular servicing. If a noise is being chased that sounds like a failed throwout bearing (a whirring that changes with pedal input), consider CVT-related issues, auxiliary belt idlers, or strut top bearings instead. A technician will confirm by checking for CVT fault codes, listening under load, and inspecting the front suspension mounts.

• Does a 2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross have a clutch thrust/throwout bearing?
  No. The Eclipse Cross launched with an INVECS-III CVT (and later some markets saw a conventional auto), so there’s no manual clutch or release/thrust bearing fitted. This is confirmed by Mitsubishi workshop manuals and parts catalogues for GK-series models.
• What noises can mimic a failed thrust-bearing on a CVT Eclipse Cross?
  Common culprits include CVT pulley/bearing whine, auxiliary drive-belt idler noise, or front strut top bearing groan when turning the steering at parking speeds. None of these involve a clutch throwout bearing.
• Is there any “thrust” bearing that needs servicing on this model?
  Engine crankshaft thrust bearings are internal and only addressed during engine overhaul. Strut top bearings can wear and are replaced with the mount as needed—these are checked if there’s notchy or noisy steering.