Parts for your 2017 Nissan Navara-Thrust bearing

2017 Nissan Navara thrust-bearing: what it is, and when to replace it

Based on the Nissan D23/NP300 Service Manual (CL – Clutch section, 2015–2019), Nissan FAST parts catalogue for D23 Navara, and major clutch catalogues from Exedy and ClutchPro/ACS, the 2017 Navara with the 6‑speed manual transmission is fitted with a clutch thrust/release bearing integrated into a concentric slave cylinder (CSC). Automatic models don’t use a clutch thrust bearing (they use a torque converter instead). So, for manual 2017 Navara models, the thrust-bearing is very much relevant.

On the manual Navara, the thrust-bearing (release bearing) sits around the gearbox input shaft as part of the CSC. When the clutch pedal’s pressed, hydraulic pressure pushes the bearing against the pressure plate’s diaphragm fingers, cleanly releasing the clutch. Its job is to transfer that pedal effort smoothly and quietly, while handling axial load – so if it wears out, you’ll often hear growling, squealing or feel roughness with the pedal down.

Because the bearing is built into the CSC inside the bellhousing, it’s not a routine service item you can inspect from outside. Best practice (noted by clutch manufacturers and workshop manuals) is to replace the CSC/thrust-bearing whenever the clutch assembly is replaced. Given the labour to remove the gearbox, skipping it is false economy.

• Typical symptoms: noise when the pedal is depressed, notchy pedal feel, poor disengagement, fluid leaks from the bellhousing, a soft/spongy pedal, or clutch fluid loss.
• Service tips: replace the CSC/thrust-bearing with the clutch kit, bleed the system carefully, use the specified brake/clutch fluid, inspect the dual‑mass flywheel for wear and heat spots, check rear main seal and gearbox input seal while it’s open.

Driving habits matter. Avoid riding the clutch, especially when towing or on steep tracks, and refresh clutch hydraulic fluid periodically (many tech guides recommend every 2 years) to help the CSC seals and bearing live longer. If the vehicle is an automatic, there’s no clutch thrust-bearing to service, the engine’s internal crankshaft thrust bearings exist but aren’t serviced outside of an engine rebuild.

FAQs

Does a 2017 Navara have a thrust-bearing?
Yes for 6‑speed manuals: it’s the release bearing built into the concentric slave cylinder (CSC). Automatics don’t have a clutch thrust-bearing.

How long does the thrust-bearing/CSC last?
It varies with use, but many see 120,000–200,000 km. Frequent towing, heavy off‑road work, riding the clutch, or old fluid can shorten life.

Can the thrust-bearing be replaced without doing the clutch?
It can, but the gearbox has to come out either way. Most workshops recommend replacing the full clutch kit and CSC together to avoid repeat labour.