Parts for your 2025 Mazda 3-Thrust bearing

2025 Mazda 3 Thrust-Bearing — Is It Used?

For the 2025 Mazda 3 sold in Australia and New Zealand, a clutch-type thrust bearing (often called a release or throwout bearing) is not fitted or required. Current market spec sheets list the Mazda 3 exclusively with the Skyactiv‑Drive 6‑speed automatic, which uses a torque converter rather than a manual clutch assembly. This means there’s no clutch release/thrust bearing to service or replace on a 2025 Mazda 3 in these markets.

This position aligns with official technical material: Mazda Australia and Mazda New Zealand MY25/MY24 Mazda 3 specifications show automatic-only line-ups, and the BP-series Workshop Manual describes a release bearing only for manual transmission variants. The engine Workshop Manual also shows crankshaft thrust bearings integrated into the main bearing set, but these are internal components addressed only during engine overhaul, not routine servicing.

Owners occasionally search for “thrust bearing” because the term can mean a few different parts across vehicles. On the 2025 Mazda 3 (BP):

• There’s no clutch release/thrust bearing on the auto models.
• The engine does contain crankshaft thrust bearings, but they’re not a scheduled service item.
• The front MacPherson struts use a top mount with a bearing that allows the strut to rotate while steering, some people casually call this a thrust bearing, though Mazda labels it a strut mount/bearing.

If someone’s chasing noises or roughness they reckon is a “thrust bearing” issue on a 2025 Mazda 3, it’s more likely to be the front strut top bearings (clunks or graunching when turning the steering), a worn accessory drive pulley/bearing under the bonnet, or tyres causing a rumble at certain speeds. A technician can confirm with a quick road test and inspection.

For owners planning routine maintenance, there’s no clutch thrust bearing to service on this model. Keeping the automatic transmission healthy is about following Mazda’s service guidance for inspections and fluid condition under local operating conditions. Suspension top mounts and bearings are typically replaced in pairs when front struts are renewed, or sooner if there’s clear noise, binding, or alignment issues.

Popular questions about the 2025 Mazda 3 thrust-bearing

Does the 2025 Mazda 3 have a clutch thrust/release bearing?
In Australian and New Zealand models, no. The 2025 Mazda 3 is automatic-only, so there’s a torque converter instead of a manual clutch and release bearing. If a vehicle is a private import with a manual gearbox, it would use a release bearing, but that’s not part of the local spec.

What’s the “thrust bearing” people mention up front when turning?
That’s usually the front strut top bearing within the strut mount. It lets the strut rotate smoothly with the steering. If it’s worn, owners may hear creaks, knocks, or feel notchy steering. It’s a different part to a clutch release bearing and is serviced with the suspension.

Is there a thrust bearing inside the engine and does it need servicing?
Yes, the crankshaft uses thrust bearings to control end float, but they’re internal to the engine and aren’t a routine service item. They’re inspected or replaced only during an engine rebuild or if there are symptoms of abnormal crankshaft movement.