How do you know if the clutch on your car is out of order?

For manual cars, clutch is one of the key systems, and the driver really doesn't want to hear that there is a problem with the clutch.Sadly, like many car parts, clutch life is usually around the range of the vehicle.So, how to find the signs of a clutch before it breaks down?

 

What does the clutch do?

To understand why the clutch is so important, it is necessary to remind yourself of its exact function.It separates the engine from the wheels, allowing you to shift gears and stop completely while the engine is still running.

The clutch contains three main elements - the clutch plate, the pressure plate and the flywheel.When the clutch engages and your foot leaves the pedal, the spring in the clutch pushes the three parts together so that the engine and transmission are connected and run at the same speed.When you put your foot down, the spring pulls the press-plate away from the clutch plate so that the press-plate and flywheel rotate at different speeds - allowing you to shift gears.

How long will the clutch last?

The service life of the clutch is a difficult question to answer.There are many factors that influence how long it lasts, but it's usually designed to last 50,000 to 100,000 miles.Usually, they would do more if they had regular maintenance and maintenance on their cars.But the type of place you live and the type of driver you drive will reduce your service life -- for example, if you are in an urban area and spend a lot of time in traffic!

 

A sudden gradual failure

Clutches often fail in one of two ways - suddenly or gradually.If a sudden failure occurs, the clutch will stop working completely and the car will stop running.When things start to go wrong, you may encounter problems, such as the inability to stop the car when the pedal is pressed.

A sudden failure is usually caused by a clutch cable being broken or loose, a linked main/driven hydraulic cylinder, or a fault.Leaks can also occur in hydraulic lines, and even discs can be contaminated with dirt or debris. 

Progressive failure is a more common condition in which your car suffers from a tensioned clutch pull, bent connecting rod, or a master/slave cylinder failure.You may even run out of hydraulic fluid or the transmission bracket is damaged.Some of these problems may occur when you buy a Worthing MOT, but most are not.
 

Signs of failure

A sudden failure is an all or nothing situation, but as the failure progresses, there are signs that something may be wrong.You may notice a clutch sticking, feel a sponging, vibration or loose pedals.The pedal may make a jarring or jarring sound, or you can spin the engine, but the acceleration is poor. 

Shifting problems and "skidding" clutches that cause temporary acceleration losses are also signs of a problem, and are guaranteed to take you to a car maintenance specialist in West Sussex.They can use a car diagnostic program to make sure the problem is on the clutch and check other critical areas, such as brakes, tires and even the windshield.