Parts for your 2018 Ford Kuga-Thrust bearing

2018 Ford Kuga thrust-bearing

For Australia and New Zealand–spec 2018 Ford Kuga (also sold locally as Escape), a traditional clutch thrust-bearing (release/throw-out bearing) is not fitted because these vehicles were supplied with a torque-converter automatic transmission, not a manual clutch. The Ford Workshop Manual (WSM) for the 6F35 automatic, section 307-01, details a torque converter and no clutch release mechanism. Ford’s parts catalogues (Ford Global ETIS/Microcat) list a concentric slave/release bearing only for manual transmissions (e.g., MMT6) used in other markets, not for AU/NZ 2018 models.

That’s why “thrust-bearing” isn’t a service item on the local 2018 Kuga: there’s no manual clutch to operate, so there’s no release/thrust bearing to wear out. If a 2018 Kuga in the region happens to be a private import with a manual gearbox, then it will use a concentric slave cylinder with an integrated release bearing, and clutch service procedures in WSM 308-00 would apply. But that isn’t the factory setup for AU/NZ deliveries.

Two other “thrust” bearing contexts are sometimes confused with clutch hardware:

• Engine thrust bearing: integrated with the crankshaft main bearing set (WSM 303-00). It controls crank end-float and isn’t a routine service part—only inspected during engine rebuilds or if there’s end-float concern.
• Strut top mount bearing: part of the MacPherson strut assembly (WSM 204-01). Sometimes called a “thrust” bearing colloquially, but it’s a suspension mount bearing, not a clutch item.

What this means for servicing a 2018 Kuga locally:

• No clutch thrust/release bearing to maintain or replace on the factory automatic models.
• Keep an ear out for groans or notchy steering at low speed—if present, the front strut top mount bearings may need attention.
• Engine thrust bearings are only addressed if the engine is opened up and measured against WSM specs.

Technical sources referenced: Ford Workshop Manual sections 307-01 (6F35 automatic overview), 308-00 (manual clutch—applicable to non-local manual variants), 204-01 (front suspension/strut mount bearing), and 303-00 (engine general—crankshaft thrust). Ford Global ETIS/Microcat parts listings for 2018 Kuga/Escape confirm no clutch release bearing for AU/NZ automatic models and list a concentric slave/release bearing only on manual transmissions available in other markets.

FAQs

Does the 2018 Ford Kuga have a thrust-bearing?
For AU/NZ models, no. They’re fitted with a torque-converter automatic, so there’s no clutch thrust/release bearing. Only manual-transmission Kugas from other markets use a concentric slave cylinder with an integrated release bearing.

What’s making a noise that sounds like a worn thrust bearing on a Kuga?
On the local automatic, it’s unlikely to be a clutch release bearing. Common culprits are the front strut top mount bearings (creaks when turning), accessory drive pulleys, or the torque converter. A quick inspection during a service can narrow it down.

If I source clutch parts for a 2018 Kuga, do I need a thrust/release bearing?
Only if the car is a manual import. In that case, order a full clutch kit that includes the concentric slave/release bearing, and budget on gearbox removal for replacement.