Parts for your 2018 Subaru Exiga-Thrust bearing

2018 Subaru Exiga thrust-bearing: what’s actually fitted and what isn’t

Short answer: a traditional clutch thrust-bearing (also called a release bearing) isn’t used on the 2018 Subaru Exiga. Technical sources including Subaru’s Exiga Crossover 7 catalogue for the 2017–2018 model years, the Subaru service manual for Lineartronic CVT models, and Subaru’s FAST parts catalogue show the 2018 Exiga is equipped with a Lineartronic CVT and no manual gearbox, so there’s no clutch assembly and therefore no clutch thrust/release bearing to service.

In everyday workshop speak, “thrust-bearing” usually refers to the manual clutch release bearing. That part’s only relevant on vehicles with a manual transmission. The 2018 Exiga runs a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission that uses a torque converter and internal multi-plate clutches, not a driver-operated clutch. As documented in Subaru’s CVT service information, these internal components don’t use an external thrust/release bearing and aren’t serviced like a manual clutch would be.

There is a different kind of thrust bearing inside the engine—the crankshaft thrust bearing that controls end float on the FB-series engine. That’s an internal main bearing element, only addressed during an engine rebuild and not a routine service item on an otherwise healthy Exiga.

• Why there’s no service thrust-bearing on this model:
  • Lineartronic CVT fitted from factory, no manual option listed for 2018 in Subaru brochures and service data.
  • Torque converter handles take-off, no clutch pedal, no release fork, no thrust/release bearing.
  • Subaru parts catalogues for the 2018 Exiga list no clutch release bearing assembly.

If an owner’s chasing a noise they’d normally blame on a “thrust-bearing”, the smarter checks on a 2018 Exiga are: CVT fluid condition and level (per Subaru service guidance), front auxiliary drive components (alternator, idler and tensioner pulleys), the A/C clutch, wheel bearings, and engine/gearbox mounts. Any concerns about engine end float or internal bearing wear require proper diagnosis, crankshaft thrust bearings aren’t a driveway service item.

For longevity, follow the Subaru maintenance schedule in the owner’s handbook for CVT inspections, and if driving in severe conditions common in Aus/NZ—towing, hilly commutes, high ambient temps—many independent Subaru specialists recommend periodic CVT fluid changes at conservative intervals. Always use the specified Subaru CVT fluid and procedures noted in the service manual.

• Popular questions about the 2018 Subaru Exiga thrust-bearing

Does the 2018 Subaru Exiga have a clutch thrust/release bearing?
No. Being a Lineartronic CVT model, it has no manual clutch, so there’s no external clutch thrust/release bearing to replace. Any “thrust” element relevant to this car is the internal engine crankshaft thrust bearing, which isn’t part of routine servicing.

What’s that whining or grumbling noise if it’s not a thrust-bearing?
On CVT Exigas, common culprits include auxiliary belt idlers or tensioners, the alternator, the A/C compressor/clutch, wheel bearings, or CVT-related noises under load. A technician will road-test and pinpoint with a stethoscope, then check CVT fluid condition and belt-drive components first.

Should the CVT fluid be changed even if Subaru says “inspect”?
Subaru’s handbook often specifies inspection under normal use and replacement under severe use. Many Aus/NZ workshops adopt a preventative approach and change CVT fluid around 60,000–80,000 km in tough conditions. Use the correct Subaru-specified CVT fluid and follow factory procedures.