How to tell if your clutch is faulty!
The clutch is a hugely important part of your vehicle - without it, you'd be unable to change between gears. Like many of your car's components, it is possible your clutch may wear out over time.
Find out more about what your clutch does below, and what symptoms to look out for if you think yours might be due for replacement.
What does a clutch do?
Simply put, the function of a clutch is to separate the engine from the wheels, allowing you to change gear and come to a complete stop while the engine is still running.
The clutch is made up three main parts - the clutch plate, pressure plate and flywheel. When the clutch is engaged (foot off the pedal), the springs in the clutch press these three parts together so that the engine and the transmission are connected and spinning at the same speed. When you press your foot on down on the clutch pedal, however, the springs pull the pressure plate away from the clutch plate, so that the flywheel and pressure plate spin at a different rate, allowing you to smoothly change gears.
How long is a clutch supposed to last?
How long's a piece of string?! There are many factors that contribute to how long your clutch is likely to last. Clutches are designed to last anywhere between 50,000 and 100,000 miles or maybe even more, but this depends on the quality of your car, how well you maintain it and your driving style.
For example, if you do a lot of stop-start city driving, your clutch is likely to wear out sooner as you'll be shifting between lower gears more frequently.
What to look out for
· Spongy, sticking, vibrating or loose clutch pedal when pressed
· Squeaking or grumbling noise when pressed
· Ability to rev the engine, but poor acceleration
· Difficulty shifting gear
· 'Slipping' clutch, causing a momentary loss of acceleration.
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, you may need a clutch replacement.
At ATIC Mechanical we are the clutch repair experts so come in today and we will get you sorted.