Parts for your 2021 Lexus Is-Thrust bearing

2021 Lexus IS thrust-bearing — is there one to service?

Short answer: a thrust-bearing isn’t a serviceable or standalone part on the 2021 Lexus IS. Technical references such as the Lexus New Car Features (NCF) and Lexus Repair Manual for the 2021 IS range (including IS 300, IS 350 and market-specific IS 300 AWD) show every variant is paired with an automatic transmission (Aisin 8-speed “Direct Shift” AA80-series for RWD, and Aisin 6-speed A760 for AWD). With no manual gearbox offered, there’s no clutch release/thrust bearing to replace.

Likewise, the front end uses a double-wishbone suspension layout, not a MacPherson strut, so there isn’t a strut-top thrust bearing either. Lexus’ suspension overview in the NCF outlines upper and lower control arms with a separate coil-over shock and mount, which don’t rely on a rotating thrust bearing at the top mount.

• Transmissions used: Aisin AA80-series 8AT (RWD), Aisin A760 6AT (AWD)
• Front suspension: double wishbone (no strut-top thrust bearing)
• Manual gearbox: not available for MY21 IS

There are, of course, thrust bearings inside components like the engine (crankshaft thrust surfaces) and automatic transmission, and even within the turbocharger on the 2.0-litre 8AR-FTS. However, these are internal to the assemblies and not serviced as discrete maintenance items. If internal thrust elements wear, Lexus procedures call for specialised inspection and overhaul, or complete component replacement — not a quick driveway swap.

If someone’s chasing a “thrust bearing” for a 2021 IS due to noises or drivetrain shudder, it’s worth steering diagnostics toward items that commonly mimic those symptoms on this model: torque converter issues, accessory pulleys, driveshaft centre support bearing, differential mount bushings, or wheel bearings. Sticking to the factory maintenance schedule, the correct engine oil spec and intervals, and the specified ATF for the Aisin gearbox goes a long way to protecting the internal thrust surfaces that do exist.

Bottom line: while the term “thrust bearing” is real, there isn’t a separate, serviceable thrust-bearing part for a 2021 Lexus IS in normal servicing. Any thrust-related hardware is internal and addressed only during major repair under Lexus repair procedures.

Popular questions

Does the 2021 Lexus IS have a clutch thrust (release) bearing?
No. Every 2021 IS is automatic, so there’s no clutch assembly and no release/thrust bearing to service or replace. The Aisin autos used in the IS take care of shifting duties without a manual clutch.

Is there a strut-top thrust bearing in the front suspension?
No. The 2021 IS runs a double-wishbone front suspension, which doesn’t use a rotating strut-top bearing like a MacPherson strut setup. The upper mount is a non-rotating component.

Are there any thrust bearings in the engine or transmission that need regular maintenance?
There are internal thrust surfaces and bearings in the engine, transmission and turbo on certain variants, but they aren’t routine service items. Protect them by using the specified engine oil and ATF, following Lexus service intervals, and addressing leaks or overheating promptly.