Signs of a Worn out Clutch
If you are familiar with manual transmission vehicles, then you are familiar with the clutch assembly. The clutch, controlled by a third pedal, creates a link between the vehicle’s wheels and the engine.
It should come as no surprise that the clutch assembly is a crucial component of a functioning manual vehicle. So, it is equally important to understand the clutch assembly, recognize bad clutch symptoms, and know when it is time to replace it.
How Does a Clutch Assembly Work?
Contrary to popular belief, automatic transmission vehicles do have clutches. The main difference is that in manual transmission vehicles, the driver controls the clutch.
While it may seem like the clutch is just a simple pedal you push down on to change gears while driving, the process under the hood is much more in-depth. The clutch allows the driver to transfer power from the motor to the transmission. Essentially, it creates or severs a connection between the wheels and the engine of a vehicle.
Every vehicle has two rotating shafts. The clutch assembly connects these two shafts. The flywheel connects to the engine while the clutch plate connects to the vehicle’s transmission.
Why is this connection necessary? The motor of your vehicle is continuously spinning, but the wheels should not be. The clutch allows for a disconnect that prevents the wheels from turning continually as well.
When the two shafts are locked together, they spin at the same speed. However, when they are disengaged or decoupled, they turn at different rates.
The clutch pedal, the third pedal in a manual vehicle, can be in two positions. When the clutch is in the upright position with no pressure applied, it creates a chain reaction. This locks the engine to the transmission input shaft and causes them to spin at the same speed. Pressing down on the clutch pedal disengages the engine from the transmission input shaft.
What Does a Worn Clutch Look Like?
Given the function the clutch assembly serves, they often get worn down and need replacing. A worn clutch will look physically worn down. For example, the metal will be ground down, with less definition between parts, and the spring system may appear rusty. That said, knowing whether or not your clutch is worn down and in need of replacing is less about the look and more about the feel.
8 Common Symptoms of a Bad Clutch
- Burning smell – Similar to when your brakes start to go, a bad clutch can often give off a strong burning smell. If you start to smell this sulfurous stench, it is a good idea to check your brakes and your clutch.
- Slipping clutch – If your clutch is slipping, your car may not be moving forward or accelerate poorly.
- Stiff clutch pedal – The clutch pedal may feel stiff and difficult to push down when it is starting to go bad.
- Trouble shifting gears – In addition to the clutch pedal getting stiff, you may find that it is more challenging to switch gears.
- Noisy clutch pedal – Often when a clutch wears down, the car starts to make whining or grinding sounds when the clutch pedal is engaged.
- Noisy acceleration – Similar to the noisy pedal, you may find that your car is suddenly very vocal when you accelerate.
- High sitting clutch pedal – If you find the clutch pedal sitting higher than usual, it may be time to replace the clutch.
- Sticky clutch pedal – The opposite is also true. If the clutch pedal is getting stuck in the engaged position or is slow to rise, it is likely time for a replacement.
How To Make Your Clutch Last Longer
Since the lifespan of your clutch depends greatly on your driving habits, there are certainly ways that you can extend the life of your clutch assembly. To make your clutch last longer:
- Avoid revving the engine.
- Don’t haul loads heavier than recommended for your vehicle.
- Change gears smoothly.
- Don’t ride the clutch.
- Maintain a regular maintenance schedule.