Find out what happens when the clutch, one of the hardest working component in any car, is replaced.
Clutches experience a lot of strain, typically wearing out at some point after 60,000 miles. As you might already know, replacing a clutch can be expensive because it's a very labour-intensive job. This guide discusses the process in detail to give you a better idea of what's involved.
Contents
What is a clutch?
How to tell if your clutch is going
How long does it take to change a clutch?
The process of replacing a clutch
Does a new clutch smell?
What is a clutch?
The clutch connects and disconnects the engine from the transmission. When you press the clutch pedal, the clutch disengages, stopping the engine power from reaching the wheels, which allows you to change gear.
Learn more about how a clutch works in this guide.
How to tell if your clutch is going
Signs that you need a clutch replacement include:
How long does it take to change a clutch?
Replacing a clutch takes two to six hours, sometimes more. It depends on the clutch configuration and how difficult it is to access. If you make a booking, we recommend putting a whole day aside.
The process of replacing a clutch
Each clutch replacement is slightly different depending on how the car is configured. Here's a basic outline of the process.
The positive cable that goes into your battery (at the negative battery terminal) is unhooked.
The front end of your vehicle is raised, your engine stabilised, and most or all of the engine mounts undone.
The driveshaft is then taken off, and the clutch linkage is disengaged. The mechanic will also disconnect the speedometer cable at this point and unfasten the starter motor from the engine housing.
A jack will usually be placed under the transmission.
All bolts on the transmission are removed to release the transmission from its mount, giving access to the clutch.
The bolts around the clutch pressure plate are removed, followed by the plate and disc.
At this stage, the mechanic will check that there has been no leakage before installing a new seal.
The crankshaft flange is then cleaned.
The flywheel, clutch disc, pressure plate and release bearing are returned to the vehicle and secured.
The mechanic will move the transaxle into the correct place, ensuring the shaft goes into the appropriate opening on the clutch disc.
Lastly, all the bolts that have been removed are reinstalled, and a test is done to confirm that the new clutch is working correctly.
Does a new clutch smell?
Your new clutch may smell a little funny when you first drive it after a replacement. However, this is nothing to be concerned about - like new brake pads, clutches take a while to 'bed in'.
The smell should improve after a week or two of gentle heating up and cooling down cycles. You can complete a cycle by taking your car for a drive and using the clutch plenty of times to heat it up. Then, park your car and let it cool down completely.
If you notice a strong burning smell from you clutch, get in touch with the garage who replaced it for a check.
Since clutch replacements can be pricey, it's worth shopping around. That's where WhoCanFixMyCar comes in. Our Garage Network contains thousands of expert mechanics who can get your car back on the road in no time.
Simply enter your details, and we'll send you quotes straight to your inbox.
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FAQs
Here are some clutch failure red flags: Your clutch feels spongy, sticks or vibrates when you press it. You hear a squeaking or a grumbling noise when you press down on the pedal. You can rev the engine, but acceleration is poor.
What to expect after replacing a clutch? ›
Every clutch feels a little different. You were used to your old worn out clutch. The pedal will be stiffer, and it will engage at a different level. There should be some play at the top before it begins to feel like there is any resistance.
What happens if clutch is not replaced? ›
Ignoring clutch issues will not only lead to safety risks and poor vehicle performance, but also increase the potential for more expensive repairs to other transmission components, which may compromise the overall drivability of the vehicle.
What happens if you keep driving with a bad clutch? ›
Driving with a slipping clutch can lead to dangerous scenarios and cause further damage to your vehicle. Once it starts to slip, your clutch could start degrading rapidly, so don't leave it as you could end up breaking down or being involved in an accident.
Is replacing a clutch a big job? ›
Replacing a worn clutch can be a significant job as it requires removing the gearbox to access the clutch assembly.
How to tell if a new clutch has been fitted? ›
The clutch should engage pretty quickly as you let it out, thanks to the thickness of the new clutch plate.
How expensive is replacing a clutch? ›
Average cost to replace a clutch. The average cost to replace a clutch can range between $750 and $2,500, depending on the type of vehicle you drive. On average, people spend about $1,200 to $1,500. About half of that goes toward the cost of a new clutch, and half is the cost of labor for installing it.
How long does it take a mechanic to replace a clutch? ›
The time it takes to replace a clutch can vary depending on the type of vehicle you have, but it's generally between two and six hours. For many, this means you could take your car into the garage in the morning and get it back the very same day! However, these are just guidelines, not a guarantee.
How long will a new clutch last? ›
The average clutch lasts anywhere between 30,000 to 100,000 miles or more. However, most last about 60,000 miles before they need replacement. Determining how long a clutch will last depends on factors such as driving habits, climate and environment, make and model, the clutch brand, and the type of traffic.
What happens when you replace a clutch? ›
All bolts on the transmission are removed to release the transmission from its mount, giving access to the clutch. The bolts around the clutch pressure plate are removed, followed by the plate and disc. At this stage, the mechanic will check that there has been no leakage before installing a new seal.
While most issues with clutches are caused by wear and tear, there's a small possibility that your clutch could fail suddenly. If it does, you won't be able to move your car at all.
How do I know if my clutch is OK? ›
With the engine still off, press the clutch as far down as it goes then release it. A clutch that is in good condition should spring back to its original position quickly and have some resistance as you press down. On the other hand, if it gets stuck, moves slowly or feels bouncy then it's likely to be wearing out.
What does a car do when the clutch goes out? ›
With a sudden breakdown, the clutch ceases to work entirely and the car won't move. With gradual failure, you may experience problems such as the car not stopping when you press the pedal. Sudden failure is most often caused by a broken or loose clutch cable, linkable or a failed hydraulic master/slave cylinder.
How expensive is a clutch replacement? ›
Average cost to replace a clutch. The average cost to replace a clutch can range between $750 and $2,500, depending on the type of vehicle you drive. On average, people spend about $1,200 to $1,500. About half of that goes toward the cost of a new clutch, and half is the cost of labor for installing it.
How long can you go with a bad clutch? ›
You can make it hours, days, or even weeks sometimes when your clutch just starts slipping. But if your car's clutch begins to slip when you're driving in higher gears – say, gear three and up – it's not long until it's going to leave you stranded.
