Each clutch is different when it comes time to replace it. The quality of the clutch and how you drive your automobile can make a clutch replacement necessary sooner or later. On average, the factory clutch will last approximately 50,000 miles. This being said, some clutches last 100,000 miles or more. If you pay attention to the clutch, you will notice the signs that it needs to be replaced.
Changes in Pedal Feel
One sign is a difference in the pedal feel. In other words, you may press down on the clutch only to have it give way and sink all the way to the floor. It may also feel spongy or give and take as you press on it. Unfortunately, this is an indication that the clutch is wearing out internally. As such, it may need to be replaced or rebuilt. Rebuilding it means replacing the internal mechanisms.
Changes in the Bite Point
A soft clutch is not the only thing you will notice. You will also notice that the bite point in the clutch has changed. This is the place in the depression of the clutch where you shift gears. If the clutch is going bad, the bite point will be higher than it normally is. Your muscles will remember the point in one place and it will have changed. You may start to grind the gears when this happens.
Hot or Burning Smells
When you press down on the clutch and it reaches the bite point, the clutch is engaged and transferring the power from the engine to the transmission. When you release the clutch, it disengages and sends the power back to the engine. If the clutch slips and disengages before you release it, you will smell hot odors coming from the clutch, and you will have the following problems.
Gear-Shifting Problems
First, it will be difficult to shift the gears. This is because the power has slipped back to the engine and is not with the transmission. As such, you may hear the gears grind and you may feel resistance in the gear shift. Unfortunately, forcing the gears could damage the transmission.
Acceleration Problems
You may also notice that you have problems with your vehicle accelerating after you have released the clutch. This, too, indicates that the power is not with the transmission. Consequently, the transmission cannot turn the drivetrain. In other words, your wheels are turning.
Give us a call today if you are having problems with your clutch. We are here to help, and we would be happy to inspect the clutch and recommend the proper repairs.
