Village Autoworks is going to list below the signs that your clutch is going bad. If you experience any of these problems, bring your vehicle to our shop as soon as possible. The longer you wait to have the clutch inspected the more chance you have of damaging it beyond repair. You’re in good hands at our shop. We are experts in adjusting, rebuilding, and replacing clutches.
Changes in the Clutch Feel
Strange things can happen if the clutch is going out. You will press down on the clutch and it will feel spongy. It may even sink all the way to the floor without catching. This softness is an indication that the clutch is worn out internally. Consequently, we may have to rebuild the clutch to restore its resistance. If the clutch is damaged beyond repair, we will have to replace the clutch.
Changes in the Catch Point
Another change in how the clutch feels is a change in the catch point. Once you have learned where the catch point is, your muscles remember that point and automatically react once it’s reached. If you have started to grind your gears, it’s possible that the catch point is getting higher because the clutch is going bad. Your muscles still remember the original place where the clutch would catch.
A Clutch That Is Too Hot
Aside from the changes in how the clutch feels, if you start to smell burning odors coming from the clutch, it definitely needs to be replaced. The clutch will overheat when it slips out of engagement. In other words, you have pressed down on the clutch and reached the catch point, you shift the gear and then release the clutch. This is normal. If the clutch is slipping it will disengage before you release it.
Problems Shifting the Gears
Unfortunately, when it disengages, you will have difficulties shifting the gears. This will also cause the gears to grind and you may even feel a stiffness in your gear shift. These problems are an indication that the power has shifted back to the engine rather than remained with the transmission.
Sluggish Acceleration
The power is definitely with the engine if your vehicle struggles to accelerate when you press down on the accelerator. The power is moved from the engine to the transmission to help the transmission turn the drivetrain. Your acceleration will struggle if the drivetrain isn’t moving.
Village Autoworks has two auto service shops to serve you. We have an auto shop in Woodbury and an auto shop in Roseville. Call the one closest to you today to set up a service appointment for your clutch.