Parts for your 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer-Thrust bearing

2017 Mitsubishi Lancer thrust bearing — what it does and when to replace it

Based on Mitsubishi’s CJ/CF Lancer Workshop Manual and the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue, a thrust bearing (also called a clutch release or throw‑out bearing) is fitted to 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer models with the 5‑speed manual gearbox. The CVT-equipped Lancer does not use a clutch thrust bearing, which is confirmed in the CVT (Group 22A) service literature. Separately, all 4B1‑series engines (including the 2.0L used in 2017 Lancer) have crankshaft thrust bearings integrated with the main bearings, but those are internal engine components and not the clutch thrust bearing discussed here. These references clarify that a thrust bearing is relevant for manual models, and not a service item on CVT cars.

On manual 2017 Lancers, the thrust bearing sits on the gearbox input shaft, riding the clutch fork and pressing on the pressure plate’s diaphragm spring. Its job is to convert the driver’s pedal effort into smooth, axial force so the clutch disengages cleanly. It’s a sealed, pre‑lubed unit designed to run quietly and cop plenty of stop‑start duty common in Aussie and Kiwi city traffic.

Because the gearbox has to come out to access it, it’s smart to replace the thrust bearing whenever the clutch is changed. Mitsubishi’s service information (Group 21A – Clutch) specifies inspecting the release bearing for roughness, play, noise and heat discolouration, anything suspect means replacement. During servicing, a tech will also check the clutch fork, pivot, guide tube and release clip for wear and ensure only a light smear of high‑temp grease is applied to the fork pivot and bearing carrier. Never grease the bearing face that meets the diaphragm spring.

Typical signs it’s time to sort the thrust bearing include:

• Whirring, chirping or squeal with the clutch pedal depressed, which quietens when released
• Notchy pedal feel or vibration through the pedal
• Difficulty selecting gears despite a healthy hydraulic system

Good habits help it last: avoid riding the clutch at lights, keep the hydraulic fluid clean (DOT 3/4 as specified), and bleed the system if the pedal feels spongy. For CVT Lancer owners, clutch thrust bearing noises don’t apply, if there’s a drivetrain whine, it’ll be elsewhere (the CVT or ancillary components) and should be diagnosed per the CVT section of the workshop manual.

Popular questions about 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer thrust bearings

Does my 2017 Lancer have a thrust bearing?
Manual models do — it’s the clutch release bearing. CVT models don’t have a clutch thrust bearing because there’s no conventional clutch. All engines do have internal crankshaft thrust bearings, but those aren’t part of routine clutch service.

What are the common symptoms of a worn thrust bearing?
A whirring or chirp that appears when the clutch pedal is pressed, pedal vibration, and harder gear engagement are the big giveaways. If the noise disappears when the pedal is released, the release bearing is a prime suspect.

Should the thrust bearing be replaced with the clutch?
Yes. The gearbox has to come out anyway, and workshop guidance recommends replacing the bearing with the clutch kit, plus checking the fork, pivot and guide tube. It’s cheap insurance against doing the job twice.