Parts for your 2020 Subaru Outback-Thrust bearing

2020 Subaru Outback thrust-bearing: is it a thing?

Short answer: a thrust-bearing isn’t a service part on a 2020 Subaru Outback. Subaru’s 2020 Outback range runs a Lineartronic CVT (TR580 on the 2.5 and TR690 on the 2.4 turbo), so there’s no manual clutch and no clutch release/throwout bearing (often called a “thrust bearing” in workshop slang). This is set out in Subaru’s 2020 Outback workshop manual for the transmission and in the model specifications for AU/NZ, which list CVT only.

There is a thrust bearing inside the engine, but it’s a different story. The FB25 (2.5) and FA24F (2.4T) engines use an internal crankshaft thrust bearing integrated with the main bearings to control end float, as detailed in Subaru’s FA/FB engine service manuals (Main Bearings/Crankshaft section). It’s not a routine service item and only comes into play during a full engine rebuild or if there’s confirmed thrust clearance issues—neither of which are part of normal servicing.

Because of that, a retail “thrust-bearing” listing for a 2020 Outback usually isn’t relevant. If someone’s chasing a whirring, grinding, or humming noise and thinking “thrust bearing”, it’s more likely to be one of the usual suspects on these cars: a front hub (wheel) bearing, an accessory idler/tensioner, or a CVT-related whine. Subaru’s maintenance schedule focuses on CVT fluid condition, driveline inspections, and wheel bearing checks—not clutch bearings—precisely because there’s no manual clutch hardware to service.

For peace of mind, here’s a quick way to think about it:

• Clutch thrust/throwout bearing: not fitted (no manual gearbox on 2020 Outback AU/NZ).
• Engine crankshaft thrust bearing: present, but internal and not serviced unless rebuilding the engine.
• Other “thrust-type” bearings you might hear about: strut top bearings and hub bearings—both are separate parts with their own diagnostics.

If the vehicle has symptoms that mimic a failing clutch bearing—noise changing with road speed rather than engine revs, or a droning on steady throttle—have a tech road-test it and check wheel bearings, CVT operation, and accessory drives. Sticking to factory CVT fluid spec and intervals, and promptly addressing any driveline noise, will keep the Outback happy without chasing a non-existent clutch thrust-bearing.

Popular questions

Does a 2020 Subaru Outback have a clutch thrust (throwout) bearing?

No. All 2020 Outback models in Australia and New Zealand are equipped with Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT, which uses a torque converter. There’s no manual clutch assembly and therefore no clutch release/throwout (thrust) bearing to service or replace.

Is there any thrust bearing in the 2020 Outback’s engine?

Yes, but it’s internal. The FB25/FA24 engines use an integrated crankshaft thrust bearing within the main bearing set to control end float. It’s not part of routine servicing and is only addressed during engine overhaul diagnostics and repair.

I’m hearing a bearing noise—what should I check if there’s no thrust bearing?

Common checks include front/rear hub (wheel) bearings, accessory pulleys, and CVT-related noises. Note whether the sound follows road speed (wheel bearings) or engine speed (accessories). A qualified technician can pinpoint it quickly with a road test and stethoscope checks.