Parts for your 2022 Subaru Xv-Thrust bearing

2022 Subaru XV thrust-bearing: is it even a thing?

Short answer: a clutch thrust-bearing (also called a release or throwout bearing) is not fitted to the 2022 Subaru XV sold in Australia and New Zealand. Technical sources back this up. The Subaru Australia and Subaru New Zealand 2022 XV specification sheets list Lineartronic CVT across the range, with no manual transmission offered. The Subaru Service Manual for the XV (GT/GT7 platform) details the TR580 Lineartronic CVT, which uses a torque converter and has no manual clutch assembly or release mechanism. Likewise, the Subaru parts catalogue for the 2022 XV (GT7) lists no clutch release/thrust bearing for CVT models, that part only appears for earlier manual variants.

Why it isn’t used is straightforward. A thrust-bearing in common workshop speak refers to the clutch release bearing in a manual gearbox. Because the 2022 XV runs a CVT with a torque converter, there’s no clutch pedal, pressure plate or release fork—so there’s nothing for a thrust-bearing to do. The CVT manages drive with hydraulic pressure and a steel chain/belt between variable pulleys, then locks up via the converter when cruising. Different system, different parts.

Worth noting: the FB20/FB20e engine inside the XV does have an internal crankshaft thrust bearing as part of its main bearing set. That’s an internal engine component controlling crank end-float, not a routine service item. It’s checked or replaced only during an engine rebuild, and it’s not what owners or parts counters mean when they ask for a “thrust-bearing” on this model year.

If someone’s chasing a noise they reckon is a thrust-bearing on a 2022 XV, it’s likely coming from somewhere else. Common suspects include:

• Accessory drive bearings (idler/tensioner pulleys, alternator, A/C compressor clutch pulley)
• CVT-related whine or hum (often varies with road speed rather than clutch use, because there is no clutch)
• Wheel bearings or tyre noise, which can sound like a growl that changes with load

So if a parts search turns up “2022-subaru-xv/thrust-bearing”, it’s simply not applicable to the CVT-equipped 2022 XV. If there’s a driveline noise or vibration, a proper diagnosis that separates engine accessories, CVT internals and wheel-end components will save time and coin.

Popular questions

Does a 2022 Subaru XV have a clutch thrust-bearing?
No. The 2022 XV in AU/NZ runs a Lineartronic CVT with a torque converter, so there’s no manual clutch or release (thrust) bearing to service or replace. Service information for the TR580 CVT confirms there’s no clutch release mechanism fitted.

What noise might be mistaken for a thrust-bearing on a 2022 XV?
Owners sometimes confuse accessory bearing squeal (idler/tensioner or A/C pulley), CVT whine, or wheel bearing hum with a “thrust-bearing” noise. Because there’s no clutch pedal to press, any noise that changes when engaging or releasing a clutch simply won’t apply to this vehicle.

Is there any thrust bearing in the engine, and does it need servicing?
Yes, the FB-series engine has an internal crankshaft thrust bearing as part of the main bearings. It’s not a periodic service item—only inspected or replaced during engine overhaul work. Routine servicing won’t involve this component.