How Do You Know When to Replace Car’s Clutch?

A clutch is an essential component of manual vehicles because without a clutch you will not be able to change between gears. Putting it in simple words, the primary function of a car’s clutch is to separate the engine from the wheels. It allows you to change the gear and come to a complete stop while the engine is still running.

Clutches are hard-wearing but do require periodic change as the clutch wears down. Therefore, this article discusses if your clutch needs replacing and how do you know when to change it.

How Long Does a Clutch Last?

How long should a clutch last be very much dependent on a person’s driving style? Therefore, you must treat your clutch with respect. Most clutches are designed to last nearly 60,000 miles before they need to be changed. Some might need replacing at 30,000 while others may keep going for over 100,000 miles.

Some Major Signs that Your Clutch May Need Replacing

1.    Slipping Clutch

Slipping the clutch may be one sign that tells you, you might need to change the clutch. This is where you need to exert more engine power to make the vehicle move. You will be aware that your engine is racing but unable to move fast compared to normal. It is often related to the lack of power. So, this might be one cause to replace the clutch.

2.    Difficulty Changing Gears

A gear change should be smooth and shake-free. However, when your clutch is on the way out, the change may not be as unified. Changing the gears become more difficult apparently when moving or reversing the gear.

If such a problem occurs often, it is time to change it as soon as possible.

3.    Difficulty Selecting Gears

While driving you might sometimes find it difficult to select gears. This also occurs when you have to force the car into gear which is usually caused by a worn clutch plate. You may also hear the difference in tone when you press the clutch pedal and this usually is heard as a rumble.

Therefore, if such a scenario occurs it is time for you to replace your vehicle’s clutch.

4.    Burning Smell

This is also one of the important signs that might tell you it is time to replace your vehicle’s clutch. You need to utilize all your senses to recognize if your car needs a new clutch or not. While shifting gears you might notice some burning smell, that could be a sign of slipping. Therefore, if such a scenario occurs you should replace the clutch immediately.

5.    Clutch Judder

Another sign of a damaged clutch is a clutch judder. It is when you release the clutch pedal, the pedal or car might vibrate. So, if such a problem occurs it becomes essential to replace the vehicle clutch.

How to Expand the Life of a Car’s Clutch?

Along with identifying the signs of replacing the vehicle’s clutch, there are some ways to extend the life of your vehicle’s clutch.

1.    Don’t Ride the Clutch

Premature wear can affect the clutch’s life. It is the common habit of the drivers to rest their foot on the clutch, even when they are not changing the gear. Putting a little pressure on the clutch can cause premature wear that adds up over time.

2.    Don’t Use Your Clutch as a Break

If you want to increase your clutch’s life, do not use it as a break. It can be damaging to your clutch if you use it as a break or to prevent rolling back on hills. Using break instead of the clutch is a great way to make it work for a long time. Otherwise, you need to replace it quickly.

3.    Change Gears Quickly

Another way that can extend the period of your vehicle’s clutch is by changing the gears quickly. When it is time to change the gear, wait to shift until the clutch is disengaged and keep the pedal down until you are in gear and then get it off smoothly and quickly.

Conclusion

This article explains in detail some of the main reasons that inform you, you need to change your car’s clutch. Your vehicle’s clutch plays a crucial role, enabling you to drive smoothly and easily change the gear. But if you find it difficult to shift between gears and driving, you need to replace it as soon as possible.

Some factors can tell when to replace the clutch. Slipping of the clutch, burning smell, and difficulty changing the gears can be some of the major reasons. Along with this, some things can also help you increase the life of your vehicles’ clutch. This article has covered it all in detail to give you a deep insight into when to replace your clutch.