Every time you drive a manual vehicle, you use the clutch – the third pedal you press to change gears. The clutch allows you to control speed by disconnecting the engine from the wheels without turning it off, making it crucial for safe driving.
Unfortunately, frequent use of the clutch leads to signs of wear over time, which can be made even worse by poor driving habits. Eventually, it may need to be replaced.
When it comes to vehicle MOTs, servicing, and diagnostics in Blandford, Sunrise Service & MOTs are your go-to choice. In this guide, we'll explore the main causes of clutch damage and how to avoid them!
5 bad driving habits that wear down clutches
Poor driving habits are the main culprits for your clutch wearing out quicker than it should. Here are the five worst offenders!
1. Riding the clutch
Every driver at some point has probably ridden a clutch; it's usually when you're crawling along in traffic. If your clutch pedal isn't all the way up or all the way down, then you're riding your clutch and could be causing damage.
It's always best to try and use the clutch in a smooth action when changing up or down in gear. If sitting in traffic, try not to sit with your foot on the clutch – wait until the traffic is moving before engaging the clutch and setting off.
2. Constant hill starts
To avoid rolling backwards, many drivers over-rev vehicles when carrying out a hill start. This can damage your clutch badly. The smell of burning is a clear warning sign that you're doing this.
When performing a hill start, it's best to use your handbrake to hold the vehicle in place while finding your clutch's biting point. You can then use a small amount of revs until you feel the vehicle wanting to move forward; this is the time to disengage your handbrake and bring your clutch up slowly.
3. Forgetting to have your car serviced
Skipping servicing can cause no end of issues for your car, and this includes your clutch. A trained technician will be able to tell if your clutch is wearing while out on a road test, and will be able to fix it before the problem gets worse.
If the garage carries out servicing to the manufacturer's schedule, then the clutch fluid will be replaced at the correct intervals as required for your vehicle. This process will help look after your clutch over the long term.
4. Incorrect gear changes
Whether you're new to driving or the vehicle is new to you, you may find it difficult to change gear smoothly. This can make the vehicle jerk, damaging your clutch and gearbox. Make sure to be decisive when changing gear, this will make your journey a lot less bumpy.
5. Driving on a damaged clutch
If you're aware that your clutch is wearing or slipping but continue to drive regardless, you're putting both the clutch and gearbox at risk of further damage. This could pose a major danger to yourself and other road users. To avoid potential hazards and save yourself from costly repairs, it's best to change the clutch as soon as you notice signs of wear. By doing so, you'll safeguard your gearbox and your savings!
6 key reasons to keeping your clutch in good condition
Now that you understand the causes of clutch damage, you can explore methods to extend the lifespan of your clutch. Let's look at the most important ones!
- Drive smoothly and try not to suddenly accelerate or brake hard. It's best to accelerate gradually and brake with plenty of stopping distance.
- Have your vehicle serviced regularly and keep to the manufacturer's schedules wherever possible.
- Avoid overloading your vehicle. Your clutch and your vehicle are both designed to take a certain weight capacity, and exceeding it can cause undue stress to your clutch.
- Check your fluid level on a regular basis and make sure your clutch pedal is properly adjusted. Your local garage will be able to show you how to check the fluid level if you don't know how.
- Use the correct gear, especially when driving up or down hills. Use a higher gear when going downhill and a lower gear when climbing an incline, as this will put less stress on your clutch.
- If you notice any warning signs (such as a burning smell or the clutch slipping), don't ignore these – get the vehicle booked in and have it checked ASAP!
Cost-effective clutch repairs and replacements with Sunrise Service & MOTs
Noticed problems with your clutch? Don't let the problem get worse – speak to the experts at Sunrise Service & MOTs, and let us handle it for you!
Our team have years of experience working with clutches on all kinds of vehicles. After a short survey of your vehicle, we'll be able to quickly diagnose the problem you're facing and fix it to a high standard. Whether you need a small repair or a full-blown replacement, you can trust us to get you back on the road in no time.
Book your car in for repairs online or call us on 01258 459798 today. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask – we're here to help!
