Global Automotive Engine Bearings Market Assessment, By Vehicle Type [Passenger Vehicles, Commercial Vehicles], By Bearing Type [Main Bearing, Connecting Rod Bearing, Others], By Sales Channel [Original Equipment Manufacturer, Aftermarket], By Region, Opportunities and Forecast, 2018-2032F

Global automotive engine bearings market is projected to witness a CAGR of 4.01% during the forecast period 2025-2032, growing from USD 3.51 billion in 2024 to USD 4.81 billion in 2032F, owing to advancements in engine technologies and increasing vehicle production. Engine bearings are crucial for reducing friction and wear between engine components, ensuring performance and longevity. Demand is influenced by both internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and hybrid engines. As emission norms tighten, manufacturers are focusing on durable, lightweight materials. The replacement and aftermarket sectors also contribute significantly, supported by the rising vehicle age and the need for maintenance across global markets.

Report Attributes	Details
Base Year	2024
Forecast Period	2025-2032
Historical Period	2018-2023
Projected Growth Rate	CAGR of 4.01% between 2025 and 2032
Revenue Forecast in 2032	USD 4.81 billion

For instance, in March 2023, NSK Ltd. developed a high-accuracy method for predicting the life of steel rolling bearings based on statistical data on non-metallic inclusions in steel from ultrasonic testing. This advancement allowed NSK to increase the basic dynamic load rating of relevant products to as much as twice the corresponding rolling contact fatigue life. Technology aids in achieving carbon neutrality by facilitating a decrease in the frequency of component replacements and machine maintenance, as well as allowing for the downsizing of machinery.

Electrification and Automotive Innovation to Shape Automotive Engine Bearings Market

The shift toward electrified powertrains is reshaping the engine bearing market. Hybrid electric vehicles still require internal combustion engines, sustaining the demand for precision engine bearings. Furthermore, electric motors and related components use similar bearing technologies adapted for electric loads. As manufacturers develop hybrid systems to meet emission regulations, specialized bearings for low-noise, high-efficiency, and lightweight performance are in high demand. This diversification of applications beyond traditional engines continues to open new opportunities for bearing manufacturers globally, despite the rise of fully electric vehicles.      

Aging vehicle fleets, especially in developing countries, are boosting the automotive aftermarket, where engine bearings are critical components for maintenance. As vehicles are kept on the road longer, the need for periodic replacement of engine bearings increases. This is especially pronounced in commercial and passenger vehicle segments with high usage. Independent repair shops and OEM-authorized service networks are seeing sustained bearing demand, further driving market expansion. Additionally, cost-effective aftermarket solutions are growing in popularity, reinforcing the importance of this segment to overall market growth.

Advanced Bearing Material to Fuel Automotive Engine Bearings Market Growth

The use of advanced materials such as polymer composites, sintered alloys, and aluminum-tin alloys is improving the performance and reliability of engine bearings. These innovations help reduce weight, resist corrosion, and improve heat dissipation in modern engines. The trend aligns with automotive manufacturers’ broader goals of increasing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. The development of lead-free and environmentally compliant bearing materials is also gaining traction, particularly in markets with strict environmental regulations, positioning material innovation as a crucial growth driver.

Despite global shifts to electric mobility, internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles continue to dominate in emerging economies due to cost-efficiency, infrastructure, and fuel availability. These markets, especially in Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America, are witnessing rising vehicle ownership. This surge supports demand for engine components including bearings. Local manufacturing incentives and the presence of multinational automakers are encouraging production ramp-ups. As affordability remains key, manufacturers focus on durable, low-cost bearing solutions tailored for challenging road and fuel conditions in these regions.

Passenger Cars Dominate the Global Automotive Engine Bearings Market

Based on vehicle type, the passenger car segment leads the automotive engine bearings market due to its sheer production volume and widespread use of internal combustion engines. With passenger vehicles making up a significant share of global automotive sales, the demand for high-performance engine bearings remains high. These bearings are essential for smooth engine operation, reduced friction, and longevity, especially in compact, fuel-efficient cars that dominate emerging markets. Additionally, stricter emission norms in this segment have led to the development of advanced engine technologies requiring precision-engineered bearings.

As hybrid cars gain traction, they continue to rely on internal combustion components, further bolstering the need for high-quality bearings. OEMs in the passenger car space invest heavily in innovation and material advancements to improve durability and efficiency, thereby sustaining market growth. The growing focus on regular maintenance among private vehicle owners also strengthens aftermarket demand in this segment.

Asia-Pacific Leads in the Global Automotive Engine Bearings Market

Asia-Pacific dominates the engine bearings market dynamic due to its vast automotive manufacturing base, particularly in countries like China, India, and Japan. These nations benefit from cost-effective labor, established supply chains, and robust domestic demand. Rapid urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and increasing vehicle ownership accelerate OEM production volumes. Regional governments also support industrial growth through favorable policies, attracting global automakers and component suppliers to set up production facilities. Additionally, the aftermarket in Asia-Pacific is thriving due to a large vehicle parc and longer vehicle retention cycles. Japan and South Korea contribute through high-precision engineering and technological innovation, while China leads in volume and cost competitiveness. India’s growing auto sector and export capabilities further strengthen the region’s position. Together, these dynamics make Asia-Pacific the most lucrative and strategically important region for cam follower manufacturers globally.

Download Free Sample Report

Impact of the U.S. Tariffs on the Global Automotive Engine Bearings Market

U.S. tariffs on imported automotive parts, including engine bearings, have disrupted global supply chains and increased production costs for domestic manufacturers. Suppliers relying on imports from China, Mexico, and other key regions face inflated costs or are forced to relocate sourcing. This has led to strategic shifts in procurement, regionalized manufacturing, and increased localization efforts. Small and mid-sized players face margin pressures, while larger firms are passing some costs to consumers. The uncertainty surrounding tariff policies continues to affect investment planning and long-term supplier relationships in the United States.

Report Scope

“Global Automotive Engine Bearings Market Assessment, Opportunities and Forecast, 2018-2032F”, is a comprehensive report by Markets and Data, providing in-depth analysis and qualitative and quantitative assessment of the current state of the global automotive engine bearings market, industry dynamics, and challenges. The report includes market size, segmental shares, growth trends, opportunities, and forecasts between 2025 and 2032. Additionally, the report profiles the leading players in the industry, mentioning their respective market share, business models, competitive intelligence, etc.

Report Attribute	Details
Segments Covered	Vehicle Type, Bearing Type, Sales Channel
Regions Covered	North America, Europe, South America, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa
Key Companies Profiled	MAHLE GmbH, Daido Metal sales Co., Ltd., JTEKT CORPORATION, NSK Ltd., King Engine Builders, LLC, Hartford Technologies, Inc., Rheinmetall AG, Schaeffler Group, Menon Bearings Ltd., NTN Corporation
Customization Scope	15% free report customization with purchase
Pricing and Purchase Options	Avail the customized purchase options to fulfill your precise research needs
Delivery Format	PDF and Excel through email (subject to the license purchased)

In the report, the global automotive engine bearings market has been segmented into the following categories: 

• By Vehicle Type
  • Passenger Vehicles
  • Commercial Vehicles
• By Bearing Type
  • Main Bearing
  • Connecting Rod Bearing
  • Others
• By Sales Channel
  • Original Equipment Manufacturer
  • Aftermarket
• By Region
  • North America
  • Europe
  • Asia-Pacific
  • South America
  • Middle East and Africa

Key Players Landscape and Outlook

Key competitors are focusing on diversified portfolios, offering a broad range of engine bearings tailored for different engine types including ICE, hybrid, and high-performance variants. They invest heavily in R&D to develop lightweight, durable, and high-temperature-resistant bearing materials, addressing stricter emission and fuel efficiency norms. Strategic partnerships with OEMs ensure early integration into new engine platforms. Additionally, these players are expanding manufacturing footprints in low-cost regions to optimize operational costs while staying close to high-demand markets. Emphasis is also placed on strengthening aftermarket distribution networks and offering digital platforms for faster parts ordering and support. Sustainability goals are pushing companies to develop eco-friendly, lead-free bearings, aligning with evolving global regulations and customer expectations for responsible manufacturing practices.

For instance, in April 2022, JTEKT Corporation consolidated all of its business brands, which encompass automotive components, bearings, machine tools, and other brands, under the unified brand name "JTEKT". This consolidation was intended to foster synergies, bolster the company's product portfolio, and improve sales initiatives, including cross-selling activities within the organization.

Key Players Operating in the Global Automotive Engine Bearings Market are:

• MAHLE GmbH
• Daido Metal sales Co., Ltd.
• JTEKT CORPORATION
• NSK Ltd.
• King Engine Builders, LLC
• Hartford Technologies, Inc.
• Rheinmetall AG
• Schaeffler Group
• Menon Bearings Ltd.
• NTN Corporation

If you can't find what you're searching for or have any custom requirements for the global automotive engine bearings market, you may approach our team at info@marketsandata.com