Parts for your 2022 Subaru Outback-Thrust bearing

2022 Subaru Outback thrust-bearing: is it used or relevant?

For the 2022 Subaru Outback, a standalone “thrust-bearing” (often meant as a clutch release/throwout bearing) is not used or serviced. Every 2022 Outback in Australia and New Zealand is fitted with Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT, paired to the 2.5L FB25 engine (and where applicable, higher-capacity CVT for turbo variants). There’s no manual clutch assembly, so there’s no clutch thrust/throwout bearing to replace. This is supported by Subaru’s MY22 Owner’s Manual (CVT-only line-up), the Subaru Service Manual for the Lineartronic CVT (TR580/TR690), and Subaru technical training on the Lineartronic design, which detail a torque converter, variator pulleys and chain/belt, but no clutch release mechanism.

What the Outback does have are internal thrust surfaces and bearings that manage axial loads within major assemblies, but these are not routine service parts:

• Engine crankshaft thrust bearing integrated into the main bearing set (FB25 engine) – internal and only addressed during an engine rebuild or when diagnosing specific internal wear, as per Subaru engine overhaul procedures.
• CVT internal thrust bearings and thrust washers that manage axial loads on shafts and pulleys – sealed within the transmission and not serviced separately, addressed only during a CVT overhaul in accordance with Subaru CVT service manuals.
• Wheel hub units use integrated bearings that handle radial and some axial (thrust) loads, but they’re serviced as complete hub/bearing units, not as a separate “thrust-bearing”.

So if someone’s chasing a “thrust-bearing” for a 2022 Outback, they’re usually thinking of a manual clutch release bearing—which the car simply doesn’t have. Any driveline noises that might be mistaken for a thrust-bearing issue are more likely related to CVT operation, torque converter, accessory drive components, or a worn hub/bearing unit. Proper diagnosis should follow Subaru’s CVT and chassis noise inspection procedures.

Technical basis: Subaru MY22 Outback Owner’s Manual (CVT specification), Subaru Service Manual for Lineartronic CVT TR580/TR690 (no clutch release or external thrust-bearing listed), Subaru Global/Technical Training materials on Lineartronic CVT (torque converter and variator architecture, thrust control internal to the unit), and Subaru FB-series engine overhaul data (thrust bearing integrated with main bearings).

Popular questions about the 2022 Subaru Outback thrust-bearing

Does a 2022 Outback have a clutch thrust/throwout bearing?
No. Because the 2022 Outback runs a Lineartronic CVT with a torque converter, there’s no manual clutch and no throwout (thrust) bearing to service. Any parts searches for a “thrust-bearing” as a clutch item won’t apply to this vehicle.

What noises get mistaken for a thrust-bearing fault on a CVT Outback?
Common culprits include wheel hub bearings humming with road speed, accessory belt idlers whining, or normal CVT whirr that changes with load. A proper road test and isolation under the bonnet will pinpoint whether the noise is from a hub unit, belt drive, or CVT/torque converter. A scan for CVT temps and adaptives can also help guide diagnosis.

Are there any thrust-type bearings in the engine or CVT, and do they need maintenance?
Yes, internally. The FB25 engine uses a thrust main bearing and the CVT contains thrust bearings/washers, but these aren’t routine service items. They’re only addressed during an engine or transmission rebuild following Subaru’s overhaul procedures. Regular servicing—CVT fluid at the specified interval, correct engine oil, and timely hub/bearing checks—helps these internal parts live a long life.