Parts for your 2018 Honda Odyssey-Thrust bearing

2018 Honda Odyssey thrust-bearing — what it is and how to look after it

Based on technical sources, a thrust bearing is indeed used on the 2018 Honda Odyssey. The factory Honda Service Manual for the 2018 Odyssey (engine section) specifies crankshaft end play controlled by a thrust bearing integrated into a main bearing shell. OEM Honda parts catalogues list a “main bearing set (thrust)” for both the V6 J35 engine and the 2.4‑litre K-series used in some markets. For the transmissions fitted that year (ZF 9HP 9‑speed, Honda 10‑speed auto, and the CVT in AU/NZ models), internal thrust bearings/washers are also documented in their respective overhaul manuals. So, thrust bearings are relevant to this model.

On the Odyssey’s engine, the thrust bearing’s job is to control fore‑and‑aft movement of the crankshaft. It absorbs axial loads created by the torque converter pushing on the crank (auto), accessory belt loads, and driveline forces during acceleration and deceleration. Keeping end float within spec helps maintain stable oil pump drive, protects the thrust faces of the crank, and prevents odd noises or shifting issues that can show up if the crank walks too far.

Unlike a wheel bearing or a serpentine belt, an engine thrust bearing isn’t a routine service item. It’s assessed when diagnosing lower‑end wear, or during an engine rebuild. If the sump’s off for major work, a technician measures crankshaft end play with a dial indicator and checks the thrust face condition against the Honda workshop manual spec. Replacement involves removing the main bearing cap for the thrust location, inspecting the crank’s thrust surfaces, and fitting the correct grade bearing shells. It’s precision work that’s best done with the engine out or on a stand.

Owners can still look after it by keeping oil changes on time, using the correct viscosity and quality specified by Honda, and fixing any low oil pressure, overheating, or transmission issues promptly. For vehicles with the 9‑speed, 10‑speed, or CVT, fresh transmission fluid at the recommended intervals helps reduce unnecessary axial loading events. If there’s a rhythmic knock that changes when the accelerator is blipped in neutral, visible pulley movement, metal in the oil, or abnormal crank end float found during other repairs, it’s time for a professional inspection.

• Common signs to watch: harsh driveline clunks when shifting from P to D/R, fluctuating idle with accessory load, or end‑float out of spec at service.
• Best practice: follow Honda oil and ATF/CVT fluid intervals, and get end float checked if the bottom end is open for other work.

Popular questions about the 2018 Honda Odyssey thrust-bearing

Does a 2018 Honda Odyssey actually have a thrust bearing?
Yes. The engine uses a thrust bearing integrated into a main bearing to control crankshaft end float. Technical references include the 2018 Honda Odyssey workshop manual (engine block and crankshaft section) and OEM parts catalogues listing “main bearing set (thrust).” The model’s transmissions (9‑speed, 10‑speed, and CVT in AU/NZ) also contain internal thrust bearings/washers, but those are only serviced during transmission overhauls.

What symptoms point to a worn thrust bearing on this Odyssey?
Tell‑tales include a knock that changes when the throttle is blipped in neutral, a clunk shifting from Park into Drive/Reverse, or visible front pulley movement. A technician may find excessive crank end play or metallic debris in the oil. Because these symptoms can overlap with other faults, proper measurement against the Honda spec is essential before calling it a thrust issue.

Is thrust bearing replacement part of regular servicing?
No. It’s not a periodic replacement item. It’s checked during engine bottom‑end work or rebuilds. The best preventative care is timely engine oil changes with the correct grade, keeping the cooling system healthy, and servicing the auto/CVT as specified to limit unnecessary axial loads on the crank.