PUBLISHER: Stratistics Market Research Consulting | PRODUCT CODE: 1787937
PUBLISHER: Stratistics Market Research Consulting | PRODUCT CODE: 1787937
According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Automotive Clutch Release Bearing Market is accounted for $749.1 million in 2025 and is expected to reach $921.3 million by 2032 growing at a CAGR of 3% during the forecast period. The automotive clutch release bearing is a critical part of manual transmission systems. It allows the smooth engagement and disengagement of the clutch by transmitting force from the clutch pedal to the pressure plate. Positioned between the pressure plate and the clutch fork, it reduces friction and enhances operational fluidity. Efficient clutch release bearings contribute to better drivability, reduced wear, and extended clutch system life. Their performance is key in vehicles requiring precise torque control and frequent gear shifts.
Growing aftermarket demand
The increasing average age of vehicles on the road significantly boosts the aftermarket demand for automotive clutch release bearings. As vehicles accumulate mileage, their clutch systems naturally experience wear and tear, necessitating replacement of components like release bearings. A substantial proportion of manual transmission vehicles worldwide contributes to a steady stream of maintenance and repair needs. Furthermore, consumer inclination towards extending vehicle lifespan rather than purchasing new cars also drives this aftermarket growth. The availability of diverse product options for various vehicle models further supports this segment.
Shift toward automatic and electric vehicles
The accelerating global trend towards automatic transmission vehicles and the rapid adoption of electric vehicles pose a significant restraint on the automotive clutch release bearing market. Automatic and electric vehicles typically do not incorporate traditional clutch release bearings, as their powertrains operate differently. As the market share of manual transmission vehicles declines, so too does the demand for these specific components. Stringent emission regulations are further pushing manufacturers towards electric mobility solutions, reducing the production of new internal combustion engine vehicles with manual clutches. Therefore, the evolving automotive landscape presents a major challenge.
Product innovation with longer lifespan
The automotive clutch release bearing market presents a significant opportunity through product innovation focused on extended lifespans. Developing bearings with enhanced durability and reduced friction can appeal to both OEMs and the aftermarket. Innovations in materials, such as advanced polymers and ceramics, can lead to more robust and long-lasting components. Bearings that require less maintenance and offer improved reliability will be highly valued by vehicle owners and fleet operators. This pursuit of greater longevity directly addresses consumer desires for reduced ownership costs and increased vehicle uptime.
Influx of low-quality counterfeit parts
The market for automotive clutch release bearings faces a substantial threat from the proliferation of low-quality counterfeit parts. These unauthorized replicas often fail to meet safety and performance standards, posing risks to vehicle functionality and driver safety. The cheaper price point of counterfeit bearings can attract unsuspecting consumers, diverting sales away from legitimate manufacturers. Combating this influx requires robust intellectual property protection, consumer awareness campaigns, and stricter enforcement by regulatory bodies. The damage to brand reputation caused by these substandard products is also a significant concern for established players.
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted the automotive clutch release bearing market, primarily through widespread vehicle production halts and supply chain interruptions. Initial lockdown measures led to a sharp decline in new vehicle sales, directly impacting OEM demand for clutch components. Manufacturing facilities faced temporary closures and reduced workforce capacity, affecting overall production volumes. The aftermarket also saw some resilience as people held onto their vehicles longer, requiring more maintenance. The pandemic underscored the importance of supply chain diversification and resilience for market participants.
The hydraulic clutch release bearing segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period
The hydraulic clutch release bearing segment is expected to account for the largest market share during the forecast period, owing to its increasing adoption in modern manual transmission vehicles for enhanced operational smoothness. Hydraulic systems offer superior engagement and disengagement precision compared to traditional mechanical linkages. Their self-adjusting nature provides consistent pedal feel and reduces the need for frequent manual adjustments. The growing demand for improved driving comfort and reduced maintenance in passenger cars further drives the dominance of this segment.
The roller bearing segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period
Over the forecast period, the roller bearing segment is predicted to witness the highest growth rate impelled by, their superior load-carrying capacity and enhanced durability in demanding automotive applications. Roller bearings are highly efficient in transmitting force with minimal friction, leading to improved clutch performance and longevity. Their robust design makes them suitable for heavy-duty vehicles and high-torque applications. The ability of roller bearings to withstand harsh operating conditions and provide reliable service life is increasingly recognized by manufacturers. This combination of strength and efficiency drives their rapid market expansion.
During the forecast period, the Asia Pacific region is expected to hold the largest market share, driven by its massive automotive manufacturing base and the high volume of manual transmission vehicle production, particularly in countries like India and China. The burgeoning automotive aftermarket in this region, fueled by a large fleet of older vehicles, significantly contributes to demand for replacement clutch release bearings. The presence of numerous domestic and international automotive component manufacturers also strengthens the market. Furthermore, the cost-effectiveness of manual transmissions in many developing nations sustains their popularity.
Over the forecast period, the North America region is anticipated to exhibit the highest CAGR attributed to, increasing technological advancements in clutch release bearing design for enhanced performance and longevity. The growing demand for light commercial vehicles and SUVs, which often feature robust clutch systems, contributes to this growth. Furthermore, the strong emphasis on vehicle reliability and extended service intervals in the North American automotive sector drives the adoption of premium-quality bearings. The aftermarket in this region also benefits from a mature vehicle parc and consumer willingness to invest in quality replacement parts.
Key players in the market
Some of the key players in Automotive Clutch Release Bearing Market include Advanced Clutch Technology, Aetna Bearing Company, CAN Bearing (V.Kan.Export), EBI Bearings Co., Ltd, FBJ Corporation, H R Sales, Inc. (HR Clutch), Hangzhou Trust Auto Bearing Co., Ltd., Koyo (a brand of JTEKT Corp), Lipe Clutch (Europe) at Setco Automotive, NSK Ltd., RAM Clutches, Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket, SKF Group, SM Motorenteile GmbH, and TEXSPIN(R) Bearings Limited.
In June 2025, NSK Ltd. Rolled out a Generative AI-powered quality control system for clutch component manufacturing, including release bearings, enhancing inspection accuracy and production yield through automated defect detection
In April 2025, SKF Group launched the SKF Low-Friction Clutch Release Bearing, designed for electric and hybrid vehicles, offering a 15% reduction in energy loss to enhance drivetrain efficiency.
In February 2025, Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket introduced the LuK RepSet 2.0, an advanced clutch release bearing system with improved durability for heavy-duty vehicles, reducing maintenance intervals by 20%.
In January 2025, Advanced Clutch Technology (ACT) released the RB1301 clutch release bearing, a high-quality direct-fit OE replacement part offering performance that meets or exceeds OEM specifications for models like Audi A4 and VW Passat.