Although the manual transmission market is decreasing, some car owners prefer these vehicles over their automatic counterparts. If you are a stick shift car owner, you understand the importance of a well-maintained clutch. Even so, as your car ages, you may experience issues. When searching for clutch repair near me, trust Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville.
Symptoms Of A Bad Clutch
Transmissions regulate engine power and keep the vehicle operating within its optimal performance range. Automatic transmissions use sensors and computers to shift into the best gear for the speed of the car. However, manual transmissions rely on the driver to depress a clutch to shift gears.
Generally, the clutch is a combination of parts that work together to help shift gears:
- Clutch disc/plate
- Pressure plate
- Release bearing
- Pilot bearing
- Flywheel
If any of these parts wear, it’ll cause problems with shifting. While clutch repair is possible, most experts advise replacing the entire clutch to fix your issue.
Typically, the average clutch replacement cost is between $1300 and $1500, with half the price attributed to labor. This is because the technician needs to remove the transmission to access the clutch assembly.
Generally, one or more of these signs indicate you need to visit your local mechanic for clutch service:
- Soft clutch pedal
- Difficulty shifting gears
- Burning smell
- Grinding noise when shifting
- Poor acceleration
- Slipping gears
Causes Of Worn Clutches
The clutch is necessary to disengage the engine from the transmission, allowing you to smoothly shift gears. Typically, the average lifespan of this part is around 60,000 miles. However, certain driving habits can prematurely wear parts:
1. Riding The Clutch
This term refers to keeping your foot on the clutch as you drive. When you’re cruising, the flywheel and clutch plate move together. Depressing the clutch pedal causes the flywheel to move away from the clutch plate. This disengages the engine from the transmission, allowing you to shift smoothly. Then, as you release the pedal, the flywheel will move back toward the clutch plate and reconnect. Keeping your foot on the clutch pedal doesn’t allow the flywheel to make complete contact with the clutch plate. Friction and heat will build up, wearing down both parts.
2. Revving The Engine On A Hill
Unlike automatic transmission vehicles, manual transmission cars will roll backwards on a hill when the driver releases the brake. The correct procedure is to apply the handbrake when stopped and then release it when you’re ready to move again. However, some drivers will rev the vehicle to the biting point – when the clutch engages the engine and transmission. Again, this produces excessive heat and friction, prematurely wearing parts.
3. Aggressive Gear Changes
When changing gears, you need to press the clutch pedal to the floor. After shifting to the proper gear, you need to release the clutch in a controlled manner. Jamming the stick shift into gear or letting the clutch up too fast also leads to excessive wear.
4. Not Putting Your Car In Neutral At A Red Light
When you depress the clutch pedal, you put pressure on certain parts of the mechanism. Manufacturers design these parts to withstand this force under normal driving conditions. However, leaving your foot on the clutch when stopped puts excessive stress on components. Instead, put your car into neutral until it’s time to move.
Clutch Repair Near Me – FAQs
Are you having trouble shifting gears in your stick shift automobile? When searching for clutch repair near me, trust Xpress Lube for quality repairs. Below, we answer a few questions about clutches.
Repair Vs. Replacement
When you’re experiencing a problem with your clutch, you may wonder if repairing it is a good option. Although you can repair the assembly, many times the clutch mechanics will recommend replacing it.
First, certain parts will all begin to fail around the same time. Moreover, the technician will need to remove the transmission to access the clutch. With this much work involved, it just makes sense to replace the clutch with all new components.
Can I Drive With A Bad Clutch?
Driving with a failing clutch is dangerous, as you will have less control over your car. The engine may stall when stopped, causing unsafe situations at intersections and in traffic. You may also experience inconsistent acceleration, making it difficult to merge onto highways.
Finally, a slipping clutch generates excessive amounts of heat, causing additional engine damage. You may end up needing a gearbox replacement as well.
How Long Does It Take To Replace A Clutch?
Usually, the make and model of your vehicle will determine the time frame to replace a clutch. Typically, it can be anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the accessibility of the clutch. When you bring your car to Xpress Lube, we’ll give you a cost and time estimate upfront.
Where Can I Find A Quality Clutch Repair Shop Nearby?
When searching for an auto repair shop offering clutch repair near me, trust Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville. For over 25 years, our independently owned auto repair shop has been helping car owners in these nearby towns:
- Colfax
- Walnut Cove
- Belews Creek
- Winston-Salem
- Greensboro
- High Point
- Stokesdale
- Oak Ridge
- Walkertown
We employ multiple ASE-certified mechanics, NC inspection technicians, and support staff to care for all your automotive needs. Plus, we use modern diagnostic equipment to diagnose and repair your vehicle.
If you’re experiencing any of the failing clutch symptoms, don’t wait to fix it. Call us at 336-904-6319 or use our online form to make an appointment.
