It’s hard to determine at what kilometre reading on the odometer you will need to have the clutch replaced. If you have the clutch adjusted every 9,600 kilometres, you will extend the life of the clutch. This gives us a chance to inspect the clutch and make any necessary adjustments and repairs. A clutch that is well cared for can last as long as 160,000 kilometres or more. Once the clutch starts to go bad, it will give you some signs that there are problems. Here are the signs.
1. Softness/Sponginess
Changes in how the clutch feels underneath your foot are signs that the clutch is going bad. If the internal mechanisms are wearing down, the clutch may feel too soft or too hard. The clutch may also feel spongy. In severe cases, the clutch may sink to the floorboard without catching on the bite point.
2. Higher Bite Point
Speaking of the bite point, it can get higher on a clutch that is going bad. At first, this change in the position of the bite point is subtle and unnoticeable. Eventually, you will start to grind the gears because you automatically shift them at the old position of the bite point. Pay attention to where the clutch catches. It will catch higher on a bad clutch.
3. Burning/Slipping
A slipping clutch is going to overheat. You will detect burning odors in the passenger cabin of your automobile. When the clutch slips, this means it will not stay engaged even if you haven’t released it. Unfortunately, this creates problems because the power transfer goes back to the engine. You need the power with the transmission in order to shift the gears smoothly.
4. Gear-Shifting Issues
You will note that the clutch has slipped because the gears will grind when you shift them. You may also feel resistance from the manual transmission when you attempt to shift the gears. Unfortunately, it’s a bad idea to force the gear shifts. This can cause damage to the manual transmission over and above the damage that you already have with the clutch.
5. Lagging Acceleration
A slipping clutch will also cause your acceleration to lag because the transmission does not have the power it needs to turn the drivetrain. We recommend that you have your vehicle towed to our shop rather than drive it. This helps prevent additional damage to the clutch and transmission.
Give us a call to schedule a service appointment if you are having any of the problems discussed above.