Depending on the extent of the damage, a faulty clutch may be able to be repaired by rebuilding it. If the clutch has reached the end of its life, however, RI Automotive advises that it will need to be replaced. We are going to list the signs of a faulty clutch below so you know what to look for in your automobile. Attending to the clutch problem as soon as possible prevents further damage.
Softness to the Pedal
You may notice a softness to the clutch pedal as it wears out. The pedal will not give you the resistance to which you are used. It may also sink to the floorboard without giving you any resistance at all. In addition, if it does sink, pay attention to whether it catches at the bite point. If it doesn’t, this is a sign that your clutch needs to be replaced.
Changes in the Bite Point
In addition to the above, the bite point on the clutch where you shift the gears can also change as the clutch ages. In most cases, this point will get higher. Sometimes, the change in the bite point is subtle and you don’t realize it at first. Eventually, you will start to have problems shifting the gears because you are used to the bite point being in a certain place and it isn’t there anymore.
Overheating/Hot Odors
A worn-out clutch will also slip and have a hard time remaining engaged. When the clutch slips, it overheats. Consequently, you will start to smell burning odors inside your car, truck, or utility vehicle coming from the clutch. This is an indication that it is time to replace the clutch with a new one. The factory clutch has reached the end of its life.
Problems With the Gears
In addition to the burning odors, a slipping clutch also makes it nearly impossible to shift the gears. When the clutch is engaged, the power has been transferred from the engine to the transmission. It is at this point that you shift the gears smoothly. If the clutch disengages, the gears will resist you and may even grind when you try to shift them.
Lagging Acceleration
Another indication that your clutch is slipping is lagging acceleration. This is because the power is not with the transmission. Rather, it has slipped back to the engine.
RI Automotive in Tampa, FL, advises, again, that it’s important to have any clutch problems looked into as soon as possible to avoid additional damage.
