Parts for your 2021 Suzuki Splash-Thrust bearing

2021 Suzuki Splash thrust-bearing — what’s fitted and how to look after it

Based on Suzuki workshop manuals for the Splash/Ritz platform and the Suzuki Electronic Parts Catalogue, the 2021 Suzuki Splash (where sold or registered in 2021) uses a clutch release bearing—commonly called a thrust bearing—on manual-transmission models. The 4‑speed automatic uses a torque converter, so a clutch thrust bearing isn’t fitted. Additionally, the Splash’s MacPherson front suspension uses a strut top mount with an integrated thrust bearing for smooth steering, but when parts listings say “thrust bearing” in the driveline context, they typically mean the clutch release bearing.

For Splash manuals, the thrust bearing’s job is simple but crucial: it lets the rotating clutch assembly and the stationary clutch fork work together smoothly. When the driver presses the clutch pedal, the fork pushes the bearing into the diaphragm spring fingers of the pressure plate. The bearing spins with the clutch while transferring that axial load, reducing friction and pedal effort. A healthy bearing keeps gear changes clean and the pedal feel consistent, a worn one can get noisy and eventually damage the pressure plate fingers.

As part of regular servicing, the thrust bearing isn’t a lubed or adjustable item—it’s sealed and designed to be replaced when wear or noise shows up, or any time the clutch is being renewed. Best practice on a Splash is to replace the clutch kit (disc, pressure plate, release/thrust bearing) as a set. Doing it all at once saves on labour, prevents mismatched wear, and heads off repeat gearbox removals. While the gearbox is out, it pays to check the clutch fork, pivot ball, input shaft guide tube, and lightly grease the input splines with a high‑temp moly grease. Inspect the rear main seal and gearbox input seal for weeps that could contaminate the new clutch.

• Typical symptoms of a tired thrust bearing:
  • Whirring or chirping that appears when the clutch pedal is pressed
  • Gritty or notchy pedal feel
  • Difficulty selecting gears, especially 1st and reverse

• Service tips owners appreciate:
  • Avoid riding the clutch in traffic—foot off the pedal extends bearing life
  • If the gearbox is out for any reason, organise a new bearing
  • Use quality OEM or reputable aftermarket kits to keep noise down

There’s no fixed kilometre interval for thrust bearing replacement, but many workshops will suggest inspecting the clutch system around the 120,000–160,000 km mark, sooner if there are noises or shifting quirks. For automatic Splash models, a “clutch thrust bearing” doesn’t apply, attention shifts to transmission fluid condition and mounts instead.

Popular questions about 2021 Suzuki Splash thrust-bearing

Does a 2021 Suzuki Splash have a thrust bearing?
Manual versions do—it's the clutch release (thrust) bearing. The 4‑speed automatic doesn’t use one because it relies on a torque converter. Up front, the strut top mounts also contain a small thrust bearing for steering, but that’s a suspension part, not part of the clutch.

What are the signs the thrust bearing needs replacing?
Most owners first notice a whirring or chirping that appears only when the clutch pedal is pressed. Pedal feel can get rough, and gear selection may become cranky. If it’s noisy, plan a bearing (and typically full clutch kit) replacement before it starts damaging the pressure plate.

Should the thrust bearing be replaced with the clutch?
Yes. On a Splash manual, the smart move is to replace the thrust bearing whenever the clutch is out. It’s inexpensive compared with the labour to remove the gearbox, and doing the full kit keeps the driveline quiet and consistent.