Parts for your 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander-Thrust bearing

2022 Mitsubishi Outlander — Is a thrust-bearing fitted?

Short answer: a serviceable “thrust-bearing” (as people usually mean for a manual clutch release) isn’t used on the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander. Every AU/NZ 2022 Outlander runs either a CVT with a torque converter or the PHEV’s dual‑motor drive with reduction gears, so there’s no conventional clutch or release/thrust bearing to maintain or replace.

This isn’t just folklore. The 2022 Outlander service documentation lists CVT transmission servicing and no manual clutch group. Jatco’s Xtronic CVT architecture (fitted to Outlander) uses a torque converter and variator pulleys rather than a friction clutch and release mechanism, so there’s no clutch thrust/release bearing in the system. For the PHEV models, the drivetrain tech description outlines electric drive with a reduction gearset and no driver‑operated clutch. On the engine side, the 2.5‑litre PR25DD (shared with Nissan) does have crankshaft thrust bearings integrated into the main bearing assembly to control end float, but those are internal components dealt with only during engine overhaul, not routine servicing.

• CVT models: torque converter handles drive engagement, no manual clutch, so no clutch thrust/release bearing.
• PHEV models: electric motors with reduction gears, again, no manual clutch or release/thrust bearing.
• Engine thrust bearings do exist internally, but they’re not a scheduled service item.

What to do if someone’s chasing a “thrust-bearing” because of noise or vibration? On a CVT Outlander, complaints that mimic a worn clutch release bearing (whirring at idle, noise when taking off) are more likely to be from the torque converter, CVT pulley bearings, auxiliary belt idlers, or even the A/C compressor. For the PHEV, look to reduction gear bearings or ancillary components. Proper diagnosis with the factory procedure is the go—listen tests, fluid inspection for debris, and scan‑tool checks for transmission data.

Technical references supporting the above include: the Mitsubishi Motors Outlander (GN) service manual sections for CVT and PHEV driveline (no manual clutch group present), Jatco Xtronic CVT design notes describing torque‑converter engagement and variator operation (no release bearing), and the Nissan/Mitsubishi alliance engine mechanical manual for the PR25DD engine noting integrated crankshaft thrust bearings as part of the main bearing set.

• Does a 2022 Outlander have a clutch thrust/release bearing?
  No. With a CVT or the PHEV’s e‑drive, there’s no manual clutch fitted, so there’s no clutch thrust/release bearing to service or replace.
• Are there any thrust bearings in the engine?
  Yes, the crankshaft uses thrust surfaces within the main bearing assembly to control end float. They’re internal parts and only addressed during engine rebuilds, not regular servicing.
• I can hear a bearing‑type whirr on take‑off—could it be a thrust-bearing?
  Unlikely on this model. Have a technician check the torque converter, CVT pulley bearings, accessory belt system, and (on PHEV) reduction gear bearings. Fluid inspection and a road test usually point to the culprit.