Ricks Auto Center advises that you will start to have problems shifting the gears when the clutch fails. We will talk more about this below. If you have your clutch inspected and adjusted regularly, it’s easier to tell when the clutch is going bad and needs to be replaced or rebuilt. Otherwise, if you experience one or more of the following problems, your clutch is failing.
Strange Sensations
When we say strange sensations, we mean how the clutch feels underneath your foot. If the clutch feels softer, or if it feels spongy, the internal mechanisms need to be replaced. If the problem is a severe one, the entire clutch may need to be replaced. Ideally, you want to have the clutch inspected when you first notice that it feels different in terms of its resistance level.
Different Catch Point
Another thing that will happen when you press down on the clutch is the catch point will change from its original position to a higher position. This is also a sign that the clutch needs to be replaced with a new one. Having the clutch adjusted regularly can help keep the catch point where you are used to it. This being said, when the clutch wears out, the catch point will change.
Slipping/Overheating
You also have a faulty clutch if it starts to slip. We don’t mean slip underneath your foot. We mean slip out of engagement. A sign that the clutch is doing this is overheating, which creates burning odors. When the clutch slips, it disengages, and this will happen before you release the clutch. This is definitely an indication that the clutch is worn out and needs to be replaced.
Problems Shifting Gears
As we said above, the malfunctioning clutch will make it difficult for you to shift gears when it slips out of engagement. The reason why is that the power that it originally transferred to the transmission has slipped back to the engine. As such, you will feel resistance when you try to shift gears and the gears will grind.
Problems Accelerating
In addition, you will have problems getting your vehicle to accelerate because the drivetrain is not engaged. This means that your wheels will not turn right away so your vehicle can accelerate when you release the clutch. This, too, means you need a new clutch.
We hope that this blog is helpful. We are Ricks Auto Center, and we are the best auto service shop in Hamden, CT.
