Driving a manual transmission is fun, isn’t it? You feel more in control of your automobile, and taking care of the transmission isn’t as expensive. University Auto Repair can maintain your manual transmission for you including adjusting the clutch when it needs it. This being said, with an average lifespan of 50,000 miles to 100,000 miles, your clutch will eventually need to be replaced. Here are the signs of a bad clutch.
Gear Shift Trouble
Obviously, if your clutch is having problems, you will have problems shifting gears. Gear shift trouble can include difficulty shifting through the gear cycle or getting your vehicle out of neutral and into gear. You may be unable to get the gears to shift at all, or the gears will slip out of gear once in gear.
Poor Acceleration
A malfunctioning clutch can also cause poor acceleration. The reason why is that the clutch is slipping and unable to transfer power from the engine to the drivetrain. Power to the drivetrain is what turns your vehicle’s wheels. If there isn’t any power your wheels won’t turn, i.e., your vehicle won’t accelerate.
Power Loss
If your clutch slips, you will also lose power. Your engine will be revving high but your wheels won’t be moving forward. A slipping clutch is a sign that the clutch needs to be replaced. Again, the clutch is responsible for the power transfer between the engine and the transmission and back to the engine.
Strange Sensations
You may experience strange sensations underneath your foot if your clutch is going bad. The clutch may feel spongy, it may sink to the floor without catching, the bite point may get higher, or the clutch may wobble or vibrate underneath your foot. All of these signs point to the need for a clutch adjustment at a minimum. Depending on the internal damage, you may need to replace the clutch.
Strange Sounds
Finally, strange sounds can also point to a problem with your vehicle’s clutch. For example, you shouldn’t grind gears when you shift them. If you do, the clutch is slipping and the power transfer is not complete. You also shouldn’t hear squeaking or groaning when you press down on the clutch and when you release it. Your engine should not rev extremely high, either, when you utilize the clutch.
University Auto Repair in Flagstaff, AZ, would be happy to inspect your clutch and adjust it or replace it if it needs it. Call us today to schedule a service appointment.
