How To Know When Your Car Needs Clutch Service With An Auto Repair Shop In Lincoln Park

By Elinor Fowle


For manual transmission vehicles, clutch repairs and replacements are commonplace. Fortunately, the clutch will usually let you know when it's on its last legs so you can have it tended to before it fails completely. If you notice any of these signs, it's a good idea to bring your car to an auto repair shop to have it inspected.

You should be able to shift gears smoothly. If, instead, your car shakes and shudders, or you hear a grinding noise, the clutch may need attention. The noise may be caused by a worn pressure plate or clutch disc, while the shaking could be the result of a clutch disc becoming contaminated by coolant or oil.

Likewise, slipping gears suggest that the clutch is on its way out. If you change gears and there's an increase in RPMs despite the fact that your car isn't moving, then this is probably happening.

If you car has been operated aggressively, it will probably emit a burning smell. Once the vehicle has had sufficient time to cool down, however, the smell should go away. If it remains or if the gears start to slip, you should probably have your car inspected by an auto repair shop to find out whether or not your clutch has sustained damage.

Auto repair services may also be in order if you notice that your clutch pedal can be pushed to the floor easily. A weak clutch pedal is most likely caused by a clutch master cylinder or slave cylinder that's been damaged by a leak. A broken clutch release lever may also be the culprit.

You cannot predict with any accuracy the amount of driving that can be done before a clutch goes out, but these components tend to last the longest if they are never overworked. Use them only as required. Try not to right your clutch for controlling vehicle speeds and you may be able to cover several thousand miles before a new clutch is needed.




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