Parts for your 2022 Subaru Impreza-Thrust bearing

2022 Subaru Impreza thrust-bearing — what it is, where it lives, and when to sort it

Based on Subaru factory service information for the FB20 engine and the 2017–2022 Impreza drivetrain, a thrust-bearing is relevant and fitted to this model. The FB20 boxer engine uses crankshaft thrust bearings integrated into the main bearing set (engine section: Main Bearings/Crankshaft). In addition, 5‑speed manual variants use a clutch release bearing (often called a thrust bearing in workshop slang) in the clutch release system (clutch section: Release Bearing and Fork). Lineartronic CVT models do not use a clutch release bearing, but they still rely on the engine’s crankshaft thrust bearings. Sources: Subaru Impreza/FB20 Factory Service Manual (STIS), Engine—Main Bearings/Crankshaft, Clutch—Release Bearing, Transmission—CVT Overview.

For owners, the “thrust-bearing” story splits in two. First, the engine’s crankshaft thrust bearing controls endfloat, keeping the crank centred while the clutch or transmission loads it fore and aft. It’s a quiet achiever: not a routine service item, but vital for smooth shifting, consistent oil clearances, and long engine life. Second, on manual cars, the clutch release (thrust) bearing lets the pressure plate release smoothly when the pedal’s pressed. That one can make itself heard if it’s unhappy.

Servicing tips that keep a 2022 Impreza happy:

• Engine thrust bearing: not replaced on a schedule. It’s inspected/measured when the sump is off or during engine work. If there’s noticeable crank pulley fore–aft movement, clutch engagement troubles under load, or metallic scuffing noises when the clutch is held down, a technician will check crank endfloat against the Subaru spec and assess oil pressure/contamination.
• Manual release bearing: treat it as a “while you’re in there” item. Replace it any time the clutch is out, typically during a clutch kit at higher kilometres or if there’s chirping or squeal with the pedal depressed. Use quality parts, apply the specified high‑temp grease sparingly to the bearing guide and contact points, and inspect the fork, pivot and actuation (cable or hydraulic) for wear.
• CVT models: no clutch release bearing to worry about. If there’s noise when loading the crank (e.g., with A/C cycling or accessories), a technician will still consider engine endfloat as part of diagnosis.

Driving habits matter. Resting a foot on the clutch pedal in a manual keeps the release bearing working when it shouldn’t, shortening its life. Hard launches and high clutch slip add heat and load. On any Impreza, clean oil at the right grade helps protect the engine’s thrust faces.

Bottom line: every 2022 Impreza has an engine thrust bearing, only manual cars add a clutch release bearing. If noises or shifting niggles crop up, a quick check by a Subaru‑savvy tech can save time and coin.

Popular question: Does every 2022 Subaru Impreza have a thrust-bearing?

Yes. All engines, including the FB20 in the 2022 Impreza, use crankshaft thrust bearings. Manual models also have a clutch release (thrust) bearing in the clutch assembly, while CVT cars do not.

Popular question: What are the signs a thrust or release bearing is on the way out?

For manuals, a chirp, squeal, or rough whirring that appears when the clutch pedal is pressed and disappears when released often points to the release bearing. For engine thrust bearings, look for odd clutch behaviour under load, visible crank pulley fore–aft movement, or abnormal noises when holding the clutch down—these warrant a professional endfloat check.

Popular question: When should the thrust-bearing be replaced on a 2022 Impreza?

The engine thrust bearing isn’t a scheduled service item, it’s assessed during engine work or if diagnostics indicate excess endfloat. The clutch release bearing on manual cars is best replaced whenever the clutch is removed—usually with a full clutch kit—rather than on time alone.