Parts for your 2017 Suzuki Splash-Thrust bearing

2017 Suzuki Splash thrust-bearing — what it does and when to sort it

Based on Suzuki’s technical literature and parts catalogues for the Splash/Ritz (K10B/K12B engines and 5‑speed manual transmission), a thrust-bearing is indeed used on this model. The engine uses crankshaft thrust bearings (thrust washers integrated at a main bearing) detailed in the crankshaft/end-play section of the Suzuki workshop manual, and manual-transmission variants use a clutch release (thrust) bearing as shown in the clutch assembly diagrams of the Suzuki Electronic Parts Catalogue. Automatic models do not have a clutch release bearing, but still use engine thrust bearings.

On a 2017 Suzuki Splash, the thrust-bearing does two key jobs depending on where you’re looking. In the engine, the crankshaft thrust bearing controls end float — that tiny back-and-forth movement of the crank. It handles axial loads from things like the clutch being pressed and from the drivetrain, keeping the crank running true so the oil film stays happy and the timing gear lines up as it should. In manual models, there’s also the clutch release (thrust) bearing, which rides on the input shaft sleeve and pushes on the pressure plate fingers to disengage the clutch smoothly when the pedal’s pressed.

For owners, it’s not a high-frequency service item, but it does deserve a bit of attention during bigger jobs. If the gearbox is coming out for a clutch, it’s smart practice to replace the release bearing with the clutch kit — even if it’s not screaming yet. A noisy bearing when the pedal’s down, a rough or graunchy feel in the pedal, or tricky gear changes can all point to a tired release bearing.

On the engine side, thrust bearings are checked by measuring crankshaft end float during major engine work, or if there are symptoms like odd noises when the clutch is depressed, a wandering idle when the pedal is pushed, or visible crank pulley movement. Excessive end float can accelerate wear on the oil pump drive and timing gear, so if it’s out of spec, the thrust bearing should be renewed and the cause (hard clutch life, misalignment, or lubrication issues) investigated.

• Driving tips: don’t ride the clutch, and avoid holding the car on hills with the pedal. That kindness keeps the release bearing cooler and happier.
• Servicing tips: use the correct engine oil grade and change intervals, check clutch operation and hydraulics/cable adjustment as applicable.

Done right, the Splash’s thrust-bearings quietly get on with the job, delivering smooth shifts and a well-behaved bottom end for many kilometres.

Popular questions

How long should a clutch release (thrust) bearing last on a Splash?

On a manual Splash, many release bearings last the life of the first clutch — often 100,000–160,000 km — but it depends on driving style and traffic. If the gearbox is out for any reason, replacing the bearing with the clutch kit is a low-cost way to avoid doing the job twice.

What are signs the engine’s crankshaft thrust bearing needs attention?

Watch for changes in engine note when pressing the clutch, difficult gear selection, metal-on-metal noises under load, or visible fore–aft crank pulley movement. A mechanic can confirm by measuring crank end float against the spec in the Suzuki workshop manual.

Do automatic Splash models have a thrust-bearing to worry about?

They don’t have a clutch release bearing, but they do have crankshaft thrust bearings in the engine. Routine engine oil changes with the correct spec and timely transmission servicing help keep axial loads and wear in check.