Parts for your 2020 Lexus Is-Thrust bearing

2020 Lexus IS thrust-bearing — is it a thing on this model?

Short answer: a serviceable “thrust-bearing” isn’t a part that owners will find on a 2020 Lexus IS (IS 300/IS 350) in Australia or New Zealand. There’s no clutch thrust/release bearing because the 2020 IS range is automatic-only, using an Aisin Direct-Shift 8‑speed auto (and related units), so there’s no manual clutch to operate. Up front, the IS runs a double-wishbone suspension layout, not a MacPherson strut, so it doesn’t use a strut-top thrust bearing either. The only thrust bearing the car does have is internal to the engine’s bottom end (integrated with the crankshaft main bearings) and isn’t a routine service item.

Why that matters: if someone’s searching for a thrust-bearing to fix clutch noise or a creak at the strut top, that part doesn’t apply to this Lexus. For drivetrain concerns on an auto IS, think torque converter, flex plate, or transmission mounts—not a clutch release bearing. For front-end noises, the usual suspects are control arm bushes, ball joints, sway bar links or front wheel bearings, rather than a strut thrust bearing.

Relevant technical sources that back this up:

• Lexus/Toyota New Car Features (2017–2020) for IS (ASE30/GSE31/AVE30): details the double-wishbone front suspension, not MacPherson strut.
• Lexus IS 300/350 Repair Manual (Toyota TIS): 2020 models specify Aisin automatic transmissions (e.g., AA80E/AA81E “Direct Shift‑8AT”) with no manual transmission option listed.
• Aisin automatic transmission technical literature: torque-converter autos don’t use a clutch release/thrust bearing.
• Toyota/Lexus engine mechanical manuals (8AR‑FTS, 2GR‑FKS): crankshaft thrust is controlled by thrust surfaces integrated with the main bearings, not a stand-alone service part.

What owners should do instead: if there’s a vibration on acceleration or a rattle at idle, book a proper diagnostic of the transmission and engine mounts. If there’s a steering clunk or groan, have the workshop check front lower control arm bushes, ball joints and the front wheel bearings. These are the areas that realistically line up with the symptoms people sometimes attribute to a “thrust-bearing”. Keeping up with quality engine oil, correct ATF, and regular suspension inspections will head off most of the issues that create thrust-bearing-like noises.

Popular questions about 2020 Lexus IS thrust-bearing

Does a 2020 Lexus IS have a clutch thrust/release bearing?
No. The 2020 IS is automatic-only, so there’s no manual clutch assembly or release bearing. Gear changes are handled by the Aisin auto with a torque converter.

Is there a thrust bearing inside the engine, and does it need servicing?
Yes, the crankshaft’s end-float is controlled by thrust surfaces integrated into the main bearings. It’s internal and not a scheduled service item. It’s only inspected during engine rebuilds or if there’s a specific fault.

What could cause “thrust-bearing” type noises on a 2020 IS?
For front-end creaks or groans, look to control arm bushes, ball joints, sway bar links, or front wheel bearings. For drivetrain whirrs or rattles, consider the torque converter, transmission mounts, or exhaust brackets rather than any clutch-related bearing.