We wish we could tell you exactly how long your clutch will last, but we can’t. There are many factors that determine the lifespan of a clutch. Two of these factors include the quality of the clutch and how you use it. For example, if you bleed the clutch constantly, it will not last as long. We are going to list the signs that your clutch is going bad below so you know what to look for in your automobile. This gives you the opportunity to head straight to our shop at the first sign of trouble.
Changes in Resistance
A clutch that is wearing out will stop resisting your foot as much as it normally does. In fact, the clutch may even sink all the way to the floor. Changes in the resistance level point to problems with the internal mechanisms of the clutch. If the problems aren’t serious, we may be able to rebuild the clutch.
Higher Bite/Catch Point
Another change that is going to happen in the clutch pedal is the bite or catch point is going to get higher. The worse the clutch gets the higher the point will get. You will start to notice that you cannot shift the gears at the place in the clutch where you normally shift them. In fact, you may start to grind the gears. This is a sign that the bite point has changed and is not in its normal place.
Slipping/Getting Too Hot
A clutch needs to be replaced if it starts to slip. What this means is that the clutch will initially engage only to disengage right away. You may have the clutch pressed down but the transmission is not engaged with the engine’s power. This will make the clutch overheat and smell hot.
Problems Shifting Gears
This is also going to make shifting the gears nearly impossible. The gears will grind and the gear shift will fight you. This is a sign that the power is not with the transmission. Consequently, if you force the gear shifts, you could damage the manual transmission.
Sluggish Acceleration
The clutch has also slipped if your acceleration is sluggish. The transmission needs power from the engine in order to shift the gears and turn the driveshaft. If it doesn’t have any power, the driveshaft will be difficult to turn. This will make your wheels slow to turn.
Let us rebuild or replace your clutch if it needs it. Call us today for an appointment.
