We wish we could tell you exactly when your clutch will be due for replacement, but the average lifespan of the factory clutch varies widely. In fact, a factory clutch can go bad as soon as 30,000 miles or last well over 100,000 miles.
The best way to take care of the clutch is to have it adjusted every 6,000 miles. This will extend the life of the clutch and give us an opportunity to inspect it and make any necessary repairs. Here are signs your clutch needs repair or replacement.
Pedal Problems
A clutch problem that is easy to notice is a difference in how the pedal feels underneath your foot. For example, the pedal may feel softer than normal or it may sink to the floorboard. The pedal may also fail to catch at the bite point so you can shift gears.
Bite Point Change
Speaking of the bite point, this, too, can change when the clutch needs to be replaced. Specifically, the point at which you shift the gears will get higher than it originally was. This change may be noticeable right away or it may be subtle at first.
Slipping/Overheating
The clutch definitely needs to be replaced if it is slipping and overheating. This means that the clutch can no longer remain engaged while you have it engaged. Rather, it slips out of engagement and transfers the power back to the engine. You will smell burning odors coming from the clutch if it is overheating, a common problem when it slips.
Shifting Problems
Of course, if the clutch transfers the power away from the transmission prematurely, you will have difficulties shifting the gears in the gear cycle. Your gearshift may fight you and you may hear grinding sounds coming from the transmission. This is a sign that something has happened with the power transfer between the transmission and the engine.
In addition, you will end up with acceleration problems because the transmission does not have the power it needs from the engine to turn the drivetrain. As such, when you press down on the accelerator after releasing the clutch, your car, truck, or utility vehicle will be slow to respond. We may need to replace the clutch to resolve the problem.
Give us a call today if you are having issues with your vehicle’s clutch. We will inspect the clutch thoroughly to see if it needs to be replaced. If we can save you money by rebuilding it, we will.
