Parts for your 2020 Mazda 3-Thrust bearing

2020 Mazda 3 thrust-bearing: what it does and how to look after it

Yes — the 2020 Mazda 3 (BP series) engines are fitted with a crankshaft thrust-bearing. In Mazda’s SKYACTIV-G 2.0 and 2.5 petrol engines (and the SKYACTIV-X where fitted), the thrust function is built into the main bearing set to control crankshaft end-float. This is documented in Mazda’s BP Workshop Manual (Engine Mechanical – SKYACTIV-G/X: Crankshaft and Main Bearings, End Play Inspection/Adjustment) and reflected in parts catalogues that list main bearing sets with thrust faces for these engines. Aftermarket bearing catalogues from recognised suppliers also specify thrust washers/bearings for PE/PY-series SKYACTIV engines, confirming its presence.

What does it do? The thrust-bearing keeps the crankshaft centred front-to-back in the block, soaking up axial loads from the clutch (manuals), torque converter (automatics), accessory belt pull, and timing drive. By limiting crank “walk”, it protects the block, the crank’s fillets, and helps the timing gear and transmission interface live a long, quiet life. Without a healthy thrust-bearing, owners can see odd clutch behaviour, changes in idle when the clutch is pressed, or even metal-on-metal noises under load.

Is it a service item? Not in the routine sense. On a 2020 Mazda 3 it’s a check-and-replace-when-needed component. The workshop procedure uses a dial indicator to measure crank end play against spec, if it’s out, the engine bottom end has to be opened to renew the main bearings/thrust surfaces. Most replacements happen during a rebuild, after oil starvation, or if there’s clutch-related overloading.

Good habits to keep it happy:

• Use the correct oil grade and change it on time — clean oil keeps the thrust faces lubricated.
• Avoid “riding” the clutch or holding the pedal down at lights on manuals, that’s constant axial load.
• Sort any accessory belt misalignment or excessive tension promptly.

When to organise replacement:

• Noticeable crank end-float outside spec during service inspection.
• Clutch-pedal pulsation or idle speed change when the pedal is pressed (manual), or unexplained front-engine knocks under load.
• Evidence of bearing material in the oil or low oil pressure events.

What’s involved? The sump comes off, main bearing caps are removed, clearances are checked, and the correct-size main bearings with thrust faces are installed and lubricated. It’s a precision job for a workshop that knows SKYACTIV bottom ends, and it’s smart to couple it with other preventative work (seal renewals, oil pump inspection). Done right, the 2020 Mazda 3’s thrust-bearing will quietly do its job for many hundreds of thousands of kilometres.

Popular questions about 2020 Mazda 3 thrust-bearing

Does a 2020 Mazda 3 actually have a thrust-bearing?
Yes. The SKYACTIV-G (2.0/2.5) — and SKYACTIV-X where fitted — use main bearings with integrated thrust faces to control crankshaft end play. This is outlined in the Mazda BP Workshop Manual in the Engine Mechanical section covering crankshaft end play measurement and main bearing service.

What symptoms point to a worn thrust-bearing on a Mazda 3?
Common clues include a change in idle when the clutch pedal is pressed, clutch-pedal pulsation, or an axial knock from the front of the engine under load. A precise check is a dial-gauge end-float measurement during service. If end play is beyond spec, the main/thrust bearings need attention.

Is thrust-bearing replacement part of routine servicing?
No, it’s an inspect-and-replace-as-required item. It’s typically addressed during bottom-end work or an engine rebuild. Sticking to the correct oil and good clutch habits on manuals helps prevent premature wear.