Parts for your 2022 Toyota Camry-Thrust bearing

2022 Toyota Camry thrust bearing — what’s fitted and how to look after it

Based on Toyota’s technical literature for the XV70-series Camry — including the New Car Features for the A25A-FKS/A25A-FXS engines and the 2022 Camry Repair Manual — this model does use thrust bearings. There’s a crankshaft thrust bearing integrated into the centre main bearing to control end float, and a thrust-type bearing in each front MacPherson strut top mount to let the strut rotate smoothly under steering load. A clutch release (thrust) bearing isn’t applicable, as 2022 Camry models in Australia and New Zealand are automatic (Direct Shift-8AT) or hybrid e‑CVT, so there’s no manual clutch assembly to service.

For owners and techs, the thrust bearing that actually comes up in day‑to‑day servicing is the front strut top mount bearing. It’s a thrust-style bearing that handles axial load while allowing the strut and spring to turn as the steering is wound from lock to lock. When it’s healthy, steering feels light and consistent, tyres wear evenly, and there’s no graunching noise over speed humps.

Typical tell‑tales of a worn strut top thrust bearing include:

• Groaning, creaking or grinding as the wheel is turned at low speed or when parking
• Notchy, self‑centring or “memory steer” feel after cornering
• Uneven or accelerated front tyre wear and vague straight‑ahead feel

Toyota doesn’t prescribe a fixed replacement interval for the strut mount bearings, they’re inspected during suspension checks and replaced on condition. On many Camrys, replacement happens anywhere from 80,000 to 150,000 km depending on road conditions and load. Good workshop practice is to renew the strut top mounts and bearings in pairs, and consider doing them when fitting new front shocks, as the struts are already out. Always follow Toyota torque specs for the strut shaft nut and top mount fasteners, and book in a wheel alignment afterwards.

Keeping the front end in shape helps the bearings live longer. That means correct tyre pressures, prompt attention to any steering noise, and avoiding turning the steering while stationary for long periods. If a bearing has started binding, replacement is the fix, lubrication from above won’t reach the race and can contaminate the rubber mount.

As for the engine’s crankshaft thrust bearing, it’s a built‑in bottom‑end component with no scheduled maintenance. Using the specified engine oil and sticking to service intervals helps protect it. If there’s ever a concern about crank end float or unusual driveline noises, diagnosis should follow the Toyota Repair Manual procedures rather than guesswork.

Popular questions

Does a 2022 Camry have a clutch thrust/release bearing?
No. The 2022 Camry sold in Australia and New Zealand uses an automatic transmission (or hybrid e‑CVT), so there’s no manual clutch or release bearing to service. Any “thrust bearing” talk for this model generally relates to the strut top bearings or the engine’s internal crankshaft thrust bearing.

What are the signs a strut top thrust bearing is worn on a 2022 Camry?
Listen for creaks or grinding when turning at low speeds, feel for notchy or heavy steering, and watch for “memory steer” where the wheel doesn’t return smoothly to centre. You might also notice uneven front tyre wear or clunks over bumps if the mount is deteriorating along with the bearing.

How often should strut top bearings be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval. Many workshops see them last well past 100,000 km, but rough roads, big speed humps and heavy loads can shorten their life. Inspect during regular services, replace in pairs when there’s noise, binding, or if you’re already renewing front struts. Always finish with an alignment.