Parts for your 2022 Nissan X-trail-Thrust bearing

2022 Nissan X‑Trail thrust-bearing — is it fitted or relevant?

Short answer: a clutch thrust-bearing (aka release bearing) isn’t used on the 2022 Nissan X‑Trail (T32 Series II/III) sold in Australia and New Zealand. Technical sources including the Nissan Australia 2022 X‑TRAIL specifications, the T32 Service Manual (TM section for Xtronic CVT), and the Nissan electronic parts catalogue show the 2022 models are equipped with Nissan’s Xtronic CVT automatic across the range and list no manual clutch assembly or release/thrust-bearing for this model year. Jatco technical literature for the CVT8 family (JF016E/JF017E) also confirms a torque converter–equipped CVT with no manual clutch release mechanism.

Why it’s not used: a clutch thrust-bearing is a manual gearbox part that lets the clutch disengage smoothly when the pedal is pressed. The 2022 X‑Trail’s Xtronic CVT doesn’t have a clutch pedal or a conventional clutch pack that needs a release bearing. Instead, it uses a fluid torque converter to get the vehicle moving and a steel belt/variable pulleys for ratio changes, all managed hydraulically and electronically. Because there’s no pedal-actuated clutch, there’s no thrust-bearing to service or replace.

Worth noting: inside the engine and transmission there are other “thrust” type bearings (for example, crankshaft thrust bearings and CVT thrust/needle bearings), but these aren’t what mechanics or parts catalogues refer to as a “thrust-bearing” for routine servicing. They’re internal components and not standalone service items in normal maintenance.

• What owners should look after instead:
  • CVT fluid: Use Nissan CVT Fluid NS‑3. Have it inspected regularly and consider replacement around 60,000–90,000 km in harsher use (towing, lots of hills, hot climates), or per dealer advice.
  • Engine mounts and driveline checks: If there’s take‑off shudder or odd noises, get a technician to road test and scan the CVT, don’t assume it’s a “clutch” noise.
  • Software updates: Dealers can apply TCM updates that improve CVT behaviour over time.

If someone mentions a “thrust-bearing” on a 2022 X‑Trail, they’re likely mixing it up with manual‑transmission terminology. For this model year, it’s simply not a fitted or serviceable part.

Technical references (no links): Nissan Australia 2022 X‑TRAIL specifications (Xtronic CVT across range), Nissan T32 Series Service Manual (TM: CVT), Jatco CVT8 (JF016E/JF017E) technical overview, Nissan EPC for MY22 T32 (no clutch/release bearing listing).

Does the 2022 X‑Trail have a clutch thrust-bearing?

No. It runs an Xtronic CVT automatic with a torque converter, so there’s no manual clutch or release (thrust) bearing fitted. If you’re chasing a noise that sounds like a worn release bearing, get the CVT, accessory pulleys, and engine mounts checked instead.

What’s that whining or whirring noise on my 2022 X‑Trail if it’s not a thrust-bearing?

Common sources include CVT pulley/belt whine, an idler or alternator pulley, or sometimes a wheel bearing. A proper diagnosis with a scan tool and a road test under varying loads will pinpoint it faster than guessing at “clutch” parts that don’t exist on this model.

What should be serviced instead of a thrust-bearing on a 2022 X‑Trail?

Stick to engine oil and filters, coolant, brake fluid, and air/cabin filters, and keep an eye on CVT fluid condition (NS‑3). Many owners opt for CVT fluid changes between 60,000–90,000 km if they tow, drive in hills, or sit in heavy traffic, even if the handbook lists inspection only. Always use the correct fluid and procedure.