How to Know if a Car Needs a New Clutch
Identify the symptoms of a worn clutch., Make sure the clutch itself is at fault., Have the clutch replaced as soon as possible.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Identify the symptoms of a worn clutch.
Usually this is characterised by the clutch slipping as you apply power — the engine speed will increase greatly when you try to accelerate, even though the clutch pedal is not pressed.
Under normal driving, a healthy clutch will 'lock' the engine to the transmission, so its speed should be directly linked to changes in the vehicle speed. -
Step 2: Make sure the clutch itself is at fault.
If your vehicle has a hydraulically-operated clutch, eliminate air in the system by bleeding the hydraulic circuit, as you would with the braking system.
A cable-operated clutch could be suffering from a seized or jammed cable, preventing the clutch from taking the full torque from the engine. , Clutch replacement is an involved job, requiring removal of the transmission to access the clutch.
Unless you are an experienced home mechanic, book your car into a garage to have the work done. -
Step 3: Have the clutch replaced as soon as possible.
Detailed Guide
Usually this is characterised by the clutch slipping as you apply power — the engine speed will increase greatly when you try to accelerate, even though the clutch pedal is not pressed.
Under normal driving, a healthy clutch will 'lock' the engine to the transmission, so its speed should be directly linked to changes in the vehicle speed.
If your vehicle has a hydraulically-operated clutch, eliminate air in the system by bleeding the hydraulic circuit, as you would with the braking system.
A cable-operated clutch could be suffering from a seized or jammed cable, preventing the clutch from taking the full torque from the engine. , Clutch replacement is an involved job, requiring removal of the transmission to access the clutch.
Unless you are an experienced home mechanic, book your car into a garage to have the work done.
About the Author
Denise Price
Writer and educator with a focus on practical organization knowledge.
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