Parts for your 2025 Mitsubishi Eclipse cross-Thrust bearing

2025 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross thrust-bearing — is it a thing?

Short answer: a traditional clutch thrust bearing (also called a release/throwout bearing) isn’t used on the 2025 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross sold in Australia and New Zealand. Every 2025 variant runs an INVECS-III continuously variable transmission (CVT) with simulated “8-step” sport mode, not a manual gearbox. That means there’s no clutch pedal, no pressure plate, and no release mechanism that would require a clutch thrust bearing. This is supported by Mitsubishi’s AU/NZ model specification sheets and owner’s manual for MY2025, which list CVT as the sole transmission, and by Mitsubishi service information for the CVT driveline that contains no clutch-release assembly. Technical literature for the CVT (Jatco CVT-8 family design notes) further confirms the use of a hydraulic torque converter and variator, eliminating the need for a clutch thrust bearing.

Why it’s not used on this vehicle: the CVT’s torque converter handles take-off and coupling in place of a dry clutch. Because there’s no clutch fork or diaphragm spring to actuate, there’s no thrust load that a separate clutch release bearing would need to manage. So if someone’s shopping for a “thrust-bearing” assuming it’s a clutch part, it won’t apply to this model.

Worth noting: the Eclipse Cross does still have thrust-type bearings elsewhere, just not as a routine, standalone service item called a “clutch thrust bearing.” Examples include:

• Front strut top mount bearing (a thrust bearing that helps the strut rotate while steering) — a serviceable suspension part.
• Internal engine crankshaft thrust bearings — internal to the engine, not a regular maintenance item.
• Turbocharger thrust bearing — internal to the turbo core, serviced by turbo specialists as a unit, not during normal servicing.
• CVT internal thrust bearings and washers — inside the transmission, addressed during transmission overhaul only.

If the vehicle shows symptoms like groaning or notchiness when turning the wheel at low speed, the front strut top mount bearings may be the likely “thrust” component needing attention. If there’s shudder on take-off or whining under load, think CVT service checks (fluid condition/level, software updates) rather than any clutch release bearing, because there isn’t one fitted.

• Popular questions about 2025 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross thrust-bearing

Does the 2025 Eclipse Cross have a clutch thrust bearing?
No. The 2025 Eclipse Cross in AU/NZ is CVT-only, so it doesn’t have a manual clutch or a clutch release (thrust) bearing. Any driveline thrust bearings are internal to the CVT and not routine service items.

What “thrust” bearing could I actually need on this model?
The most likely serviceable thrust-style bearing is the front strut top mount bearing. If you hear creaks, binding, or a graunch when turning at parking speeds, have the strut mounts and bearings inspected and replaced in pairs if worn.

Do the turbo or engine thrust bearings need regular maintenance?
No. The turbo’s thrust bearing and the engine’s crankshaft thrust bearings live inside their respective assemblies. They aren’t maintained separately and are only addressed during a rebuild or component replacement if there’s a fault.