Parts for your 2018 Nissan Pathfinder-Thrust bearing

2018 Nissan Pathfinder thrust-bearing: what’s actually fitted

Short answer: a clutch “thrust-bearing” (also called a release or throw-out bearing) isn’t a service part on a 2018 Nissan Pathfinder R52. The Aussie and Kiwi-delivered 2018 Pathfinder runs the VQ35DD 3.5‑litre V6 paired with Nissan’s Xtronic CVT (Jatco CVT8, JF016E/JF017E). There’s no manual clutch, so there’s no external clutch thrust/release bearing to replace. This is backed by the 2018 Pathfinder Factory Service Manual (R52) – Transaxle & Transmission (TM-CVT) section – which details a torque converter CVT with no clutch release mechanism, and by Nissan’s Electronic Parts Catalogue for the R52, which lists no release bearing under a “Clutch” group because that group doesn’t exist for this model. Jatco’s CVT8 technical outlines likewise describe a torque converter and internal, hydraulically controlled components rather than a mechanical release setup.

If someone’s chasing a “thrust-bearing” for this Pathfinder, they’re likely thinking of a manual clutch release bearing found in vehicles with a pedal-operated clutch. That part simply isn’t used here. The Pathfinder does have thrust elements elsewhere – for example, crankshaft thrust bearings (integrated with a main bearing to control end-float) and various internal transmission thrust bearings/washers – but those live inside the engine or CVT and aren’t standalone service items for routine maintenance.

Why it isn’t used on this model comes down to the driveline design. The CVT uses a torque converter to couple the engine to the transmission, with lock-up control handled hydraulically. There’s no need for a release bearing to move spring fingers on a pressure plate, because there’s no manual clutch assembly in the first place.

If the goal is to cure a noise that sounds like an old-school thrust-bearing squeal or rumble, it’s worth checking components that commonly mimic those symptoms on an R52:

• CVT fluid condition (use Nissan NS-3 and adhere to severe-use intervals if towing or doing lots of stop–start kilometres)
• Front hub/wheel bearings
• Accessory drive pulleys and idlers, including the A/C compressor clutch/pulley
• Engine/transmission mounts

As for the internal engine thrust bearing, it’s not a routine service part. Excessive crank end-float is rare and, if suspected, calls for proper diagnosis before any engine-out work.

Popular questions

Does a 2018 Nissan Pathfinder have a clutch thrust/release bearing?
No. The 2018 Pathfinder R52 uses an Xtronic CVT with a torque converter, not a manual gearbox. There’s no external clutch assembly and no release bearing to service. This matches the Nissan Factory Service Manual (TM-CVT) and the Nissan parts catalogue for the R52.

Are there any thrust bearings at all on this model?
Yes, but they’re internal. The VQ35DD engine has a thrust bearing integrated with a main bearing to control crankshaft end-play, and the CVT has internal thrust bearings/washers. These aren’t routine maintenance items and are only addressed during major overhaul work.

What should be serviced if there’s a driveline noise that sounds like a bad thrust-bearing?
On an R52 Pathfinder, start with CVT fluid condition and level (use NS‑3), then inspect front hub bearings, accessory belt idlers/tensioner, and mounts. Those are the usual culprits for rumbling or whirring that might be mistaken for a manual clutch release bearing noise.