The ultimate guide to clutch repair
Clutch problems are one of the most common issues to effect cars and there are a huge range of specific complications to consider when repairing or replacing a clutch.
In 2016 alone, over 13,000 drivers have requested clutch repair or replacement from WhoCanFixMyCar.com. Get clutch repair quotes
It is one of the most popular categories on the platform as drivers all over the UK are regularly suffering from similar problems.
What is a Clutch?
The clutch is the part of your car engine which is responsible for engaging and disengaging the power transmission.
A clutch engages and disengages two rotating shafts which allow your car to move. However, they naturally wear down over time as the parts are in constant friction with each other.
Craig Stein, owner of Steins Garage Services in Scotland said;
“Due to the nature of the part, it will naturally wear down over time. The truth is that you will have to have the part replaced or repaired eventually.”
My Clutch is slipping
Slipping is one of the most common clutch issues and can cause a drop in performance, as well as damage, if not diagnosed in time.
Watch out for;
Your car struggling to move forward at a low speed in a high gear.
Your car finding it difficult to get up hills in a high gear.
Your car not being able to accelerate effectively or tow a trailer.
My Clutch is making a noise or a chatter
Chattering occurs when the clutch is being used and a grabbing or jerking can be felt in the vehicle.
This problem may be caused by the following internal clutch issues;
A warped or grooved flywheel
Missing flywheel dowel pins
A worn piolet bearing/bushing
A worn bearing retainer
Bent or broken drive straps
A bent or distorted clutch disc
A loose clutch cover
Clutch linings becoming covered in oil grease or getting burned or glazed
My clutch is growling or making squealing noises
If you are hearing strange noises like growls or squeals, this can be another sign of a problem with a clutch, as vibrations within the part could cause such sounds.
If you hear any strange noises coming from your car, have it looked at immediately as a fault with your clutch could cause serious danger while you are driving.
A burning smell from the clutch
Craig said;
“Sometimes you’ll be able to smell something like burning rubber when a clutch has an issue. This happens when there is a big build up of heat within the part.”
How much will a clutch repair cost?
When analysing the costs of clutch repair, we used over 13,000 lines of data from jobs posted on WhoCanFixMyCar.com to draw the following pricing conclusions.
The average quote for clutch repair or replacement is £420.23 in the UK. This is the average cost across all car models. However, we have also looked at some of the most popular brands in the UK.
Audi – £495
BMW – £450
Mercedes – £400
Vauxhall – £380
Ford – £320
Volkswagen – £310
Craig said:
“Each clutch job is different and the price will vary depending on the problem and car, some drivers might just need a quick fix and they’ll be able to get on their way, others may need an entire replacement.”
How long does clutch repair take?
Once more, the length of time to complete clutch repair or replacement will depend entirely on how badly damaged the part is.
What can I do to extend the life of my clutch?
Craig had some simple advice;
“Don’t drive like a maniac! Sensible driving doesn’t just protect the driver, it also protects the car itself.
“The worst thing you can do is to ride the clutch constantly. By using the clutch when you are stopped, when you should be using the handbrake, you’ll make the part wear down much faster.”
Is my clutch about to break?
If you your car is displaying any of the signs we have told you about, it is essential that you move to tackle the problem as soon as possible.
The longer you ignore an issue, the worse it will get, fact.
Fortunately, you can do something right now which could help you save future costs.
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