Parts for your 2020 Toyota Camry-Thrust bearing

2020 Toyota Camry thrust-bearing — is it used on this model?

Short answer: a clutch-style thrust-bearing isn’t used on the 2020 Toyota Camry sold in Australia and New Zealand. According to Toyota service information (TIS) and the Repair Manual for the 2018–2022 Camry (AXVA70/AXVH70), local models were fitted with the Direct Shift 8‑speed automatic (UA80E/UA80F) or the hybrid e‑CVT. These transmissions don’t use a clutch release/thrust bearing like a manual gearbox would. The torque converter in the 8‑speed and the e‑CVT’s motor‑generator set handle drive engagement, so there’s no release bearing in the bellhousing to service.

If someone’s searching for a “2020 Camry thrust-bearing” as a routine service item, that part isn’t relevant to this vehicle’s drivetrain. That’s why you won’t find a factory replacement procedure for a clutch thrust-bearing in the Camry’s transmission sections of the Toyota Repair Manual.

Worth noting for accuracy: Toyota literature does reference “thrust” components elsewhere on the car. The A25A‑FKS/A25A‑FXS engine uses a crankshaft thrust bearing surface integrated with the main bearing set (see Engine Mechanical – Crankshaft – Thrust Clearance in TIS). It also uses a bearing in the front suspension support (strut top) to let the spring/strut turn smoothly during steering (see Front Suspension – Front Shock Absorber with Coil Spring – Front Suspension Support Sub‑Assembly). These aren’t the same as a clutch thrust-bearing and aren’t routine service items unless wear or noise is diagnosed.

• What people often mean by “thrust-bearing noise” on a manual car: a whirring or grumble that changes with clutch pedal use. The 2020 Camry’s auto/e‑CVT doesn’t create that scenario.
• If there’s a whirring or grind on a 2020 Camry, common checks include: front strut top bearings during low‑speed steering, accessory drive idler/tensioner bearings, A/C compressor clutch and pulley, or wheel bearings.

Technical sources referenced: Toyota Service Information (TIS) for 2018–2022 Camry AXVA70/AXVH70 — New Car Features (Direct Shift‑8AT, Hybrid System), Repair Manual – Automatic Transaxle (UA80E/UA80F) and Hybrid Transaxle (no clutch release bearing), Engine Mechanical – Crankshaft (thrust clearance/bearing surfaces), Front Suspension – Support bearing at strut top.

FAQs

Does a 2020 Toyota Camry have a clutch thrust-bearing?
No. With the 8‑speed automatic or hybrid e‑CVT, there’s no clutch release/thrust bearing. Engagement is handled by a torque converter or motor‑generators, so there’s nothing to service like on a manual clutch setup.

Where are “thrust” bearings used on a 2020 Camry?
Internally, the engine uses a crankshaft thrust surface within the main bearings to control end‑float, and the front strut top mounts use a support bearing for smooth steering. These aren’t periodic service parts, they’re addressed only if there’s confirmed wear, noise, or during engine/strut overhaul.

What should be checked if a noise sounds like a thrust-bearing on a Camry?
On these autos, look to the front strut top bearings during steering, accessory drive idler/tensioner pulleys, A/C compressor pulley/clutch, wheel bearings, or—less commonly—torque converter issues. A mechanic can isolate the source with a road test and stethoscope checks.