Parts for your 2018 Subaru Impreza-Thrust bearing

2018 Subaru Impreza thrust bearing

Based on factory and trade sources — Subaru Service Manual (STIS) for 2017–2019 Impreza, Clutch section, Exedy clutch catalogue for Subaru applications, and Subaru Lineartronic TR580 CVT service literature — a thrust bearing (also called the clutch release or throwout bearing) is fitted to 2018 Subaru Impreza models with a manual transmission. CVT-equipped cars don’t use a serviceable clutch thrust bearing, and the engine’s crankshaft thrust bearing is internal and not part of routine servicing.

On a manual 2018 Impreza, the thrust bearing sits between the clutch fork and the diaphragm spring of the pressure plate. Its job is simple but critical: it lets the clutch fork press smoothly on the spinning clutch, so gear changes are quiet and pedal feel stays light. When it wears, the car can sound rough and shift quality takes a hit.

There’s no fixed service interval for the thrust bearing. In practice, it’s replaced whenever the clutch is out, or sooner if it starts making noise. Most workshops in Australia and New Zealand will fit a complete clutch kit — pressure plate, friction disc and release (thrust) bearing — to avoid pulling the gearbox twice.

• Typical signs it’s on the way out:
  • Growl or rumble with the clutch pedal pressed that vanishes when released
  • Squeal that changes with pedal movement
  • Notchy shifts or baulking into first or reverse
  • Pedal vibration or a slightly grabby take-up

• Good servicing tips for a manual Impreza:
  • Replace the thrust bearing whenever the clutch is replaced
  • Lightly lube only the bearing guide tube and fork contact points with high-temp moly grease — keep it off friction surfaces
  • Inspect the clutch fork, pivot, guide tube and input shaft for wear
  • Resurface or replace the flywheel if heat-spotted or out of spec
  • Set cable free play or bleed the hydraulics as equipped, and verify pedal height

Note for CVT models: the Lineartronic TR580 uses a torque converter and internal bearings, there’s no external clutch release/thrust bearing to service. The engine’s crankshaft thrust bearing exists on all engines (FB20), but it’s part of the main bearing set and only addressed during an engine rebuild, not routine maintenance.

Does a 2018 Impreza with CVT have a thrust bearing?

No — there’s no serviceable clutch thrust (release) bearing on CVT models. The Lineartronic TR580 uses a torque converter and internal bearings. Any thrust bearings inside the transmission are not separate service items during regular servicing.

What noises suggest the thrust bearing is failing on a manual Impreza?

A steady growl or rumble that appears when the clutch pedal is pressed and disappears when it’s released is the classic sign. Some cars squeal as the pedal starts to move, and drivers may notice a rougher pedal feel or hesitation engaging first or reverse.

Should the thrust bearing be changed on its own?

It can be, but it’s best practice to replace the entire clutch kit (disc, pressure plate and release/thrust bearing) while the gearbox is out. It keeps the clutch package matched and saves on repeat labour if the other parts are near the end of their life.