The clutch is crucial to a manual transmission. Without the clutch, you won’t be able to change gears. On average, a manual transmission clutch can last anywhere from 50,000 miles to 100,000 miles. The clutch needs to be adjusted regularly to extend its life. We can do that here at Padron Automotive, and we can also replace the clutch when it goes out. Here are signs that your clutch is going bad.
Acceleration Hesitation
A definite indicator of a failing clutch is hesitation when you try to accelerate. The clutch works with the manual transmission to spin your vehicle’s wheels. If the clutch is failing or slipping, your vehicle won’t go into gear and you won’t be able to accelerate. You may also notice hesitation as you shift through the gear cycle. Your engine may stutter and hesitate before it picks up speed.
Burning Clutch
You may have burnt the clutch at times when you were first learning how to drive with it, but now, you shouldn’t smell any hot smells coming from the clutch. If you do, this is a sign that the internal mechanisms are wearing down and the clutch is slipping. A burning clutch is definitely a sign that you need a new one.
Gear Problems
If it is getting difficult to get your vehicle to go into gear or to shift through the gear cycle, this is also a sign that your clutch is going out. Shifting through the gear cycle should be the same every time you do it. If your vehicle fights to go into gear and to change gears, a clutch adjustment or replacement is in order.
Grinding Sounds
Shifting gears should be silent with the exception of the change in the engine’s RPMs. If you hear grinding sounds when you shift gears, your clutch is going bad. You shouldn’t hear squealing or squeaking sounds, either, especially when you depress and release the clutch. Any unusual noise can point to a clutch problem.
High Catch Point
The catch or bite point is the point when you shift gears. If you’ve noticed that your catch point seems higher than normal, this is a sign that your clutch is going out. In some cases, we may be able to resolve the problem by adjusting the clutch.
Spongy Feeling
Finally, the resistance that your clutch gives you should not change. Signs of a bad clutch include a soft and spongy feeling underneath your foot.
Padron Automotive in Topeka, KS, can replace your clutch if it needs it. Give us a call today to set up an appointment.
