The average lifespan of the manual transmission’s clutch varies widely. Some drivers only get 30,000 to 50,000 miles out of their clutches. Other drivers can drive for more than 100,000 miles before they need the clutch replaced. Uptown Imports advises that if you take it easy on your clutch, you will get a longer lifespan out of it. Here are signs that your import’s clutch is going bad and needs to be replaced.
Gear-Shifting Problems
If you are having problems shifting the gears, it’s possible that the clutch is going bad. When the clutch starts to fail, it may not stay engaged even though you haven’t released it yet. This can make shifting the gears impossible because the engine has all of the power. Normally, when you shift gears, the power has been transferred to the transmission. A faulty clutch will have problems with this power shift.
Grinding Noises
Consequently, you may hear grinding noises every time you shift gears. This is a bad sign that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. If you continue to force your vehicle into gear and to shift through the gear cycle with the grinding noises, you are not only damaging the gears but also the clutch. We can replace the clutch if necessary. We can also rebuild it if it isn’t damaged beyond repair.
High Catch Point
You might also notice that the catch point in your clutch has gotten higher lately. This is a sign that the clutch is going out. Sometimes, we can restore the original catch point by adjusting the clutch. If there is damage to the internal mechanisms of the clutch, however, we will have to replace it.
Odd Pedal Resistance
You might also notice that your clutch is not giving you as much resistance as it normally does. If it feels spongy underneath your foot, or if it is too hard to press down, it needs to be inspected as soon as possible. Your clutch should feel about the same every time you use it.
Overheating Clutch
If the clutch is slipping, which means it is not staying engaged, it will start to overheat. You will smell burning odors coming from the clutch every time you use it.
Speed Hesitation
Finally, if your vehicle hesitates to pick up speed when you release the clutch, it is slipping and needs to be replaced. No matter how hard you press down on the accelerator, the acceleration will hesitate.
Uptown Imports is the best auto service shop in Minneapolis, MN, so call us today if you are having problems with your import’s clutch.