Parts for your 2023 Ford Escape-Thrust bearing

2023 Ford Escape thrust-bearing — what’s actually fitted?

Looking for a thrust-bearing for a 2023 Ford Escape? For the driveline, it’s not a thing on this model. In Australian and New Zealand spec, the 2023 Escape was delivered with either an 8‑speed automatic (torque‑converter) or a hybrid/eCVT power‑split transmission — no manual gearbox was offered. Because there’s no manual clutch, there’s no clutch release (often called “thrust”) bearing to service or replace. This is backed by Ford’s 2023 Escape owner information and local model specifications, as well as Ford service literature for the 8F‑series automatic and the hybrid eCVT, which detail torque converters and power‑split hardware rather than a conventional clutch release system.

What the Escape does have are internal thrust elements inside the engine and transmissions (for managing axial loads), but these are not routine service parts — they’re only touched during a full engine or transmission overhaul. That’s workshop territory, not day‑to‑day servicing.

Another bit of confusion comes from the front suspension. The Escape’s MacPherson struts use a strut top mount with an integrated bearing to let the strut rotate as you steer. In the trade, that’s sometimes casually called a “strut thrust bearing”, but the correct part name is strut mount/bearing. If you’re hearing low‑speed creaks or notchiness at the wheel, that front strut mount bearing is the one most owners end up replacing — not a clutch thrust bearing.

So, if someone’s chasing a “thrust-bearing” for a 2023 Escape, they usually mean one of two things:

• A strut top mount/bearing for the front suspension (a normal service/repair item), or
• They’re thinking of a clutch release bearing from older manual models — which doesn’t apply here.

Need a hand figuring out which bearing you actually need? Under the bonnet checks won’t show a driveline thrust bearing on this model, but a quick road test for steering noise or feel can point you straight to the strut top mount/bearing if that’s the culprit. If there’s play, binding, or graunching while turning the wheel at parking speeds, it’s worth getting the front strut mounts inspected and replaced as a pair. That’ll keep the steering feel tidy and the tyres wearing nice and even across the kilometres.

Popular questions

Does a 2023 Ford Escape have a clutch thrust bearing?
No. With the 8‑speed auto and hybrid eCVT line‑up in AU/NZ, there’s no manual clutch, so there’s no clutch release (thrust) bearing to replace. The driveline uses a torque converter or a power‑split unit instead.

What “thrust bearing” might people mean on a 2023 Escape?
Most of the time they’re talking about the front suspension strut top mount/bearing. It allows the strut to rotate smoothly when you steer. If you’ve got creaks, pops, or notchiness at low speed, that part could be due for replacement.

Are there any thrust bearings to service in the engine or transmission?
There are internal thrust washers/bearings inside the engine and auto/eCVT, but they’re not routine service items. They’re only inspected or replaced during a major rebuild by a specialist with the right tools and specs.