Servicing for farm vehicles

3 Signs Your Clutch Needs Repair

Do you drive a manual? The clutch is among the most significant mechanical components in the vehicle. It's a crucial component in your vehicle's transmission system that makes it possible to engage gears. However, this also means that it works the hardest in the system. That's because with every start, stop, and change of gears, you have to engage or disengage the clutch. While clutches are generally built to last, this continuous use can strain the component. Each time you engage or disengage the clutch, the friction between the metal components results in wear. Clutch problems can be dangerous.

What's more, clutch repairs can be costly. Staying ahead of clutch problems by knowing the signs of failure can save you from all these. Here is how you can know that your clutch is failing.

You Are Struggling to Switch Gears

Shifting gears should be smooth if you have a properly functioning clutch. If your clutch is worn or damaged, you will realise that you need to apply extra force to shift gears. In most cases, you will notice this when moving in and out of the reverse gear. That's because when you engage the reverse gear, you divert the engine power to the opposite direction to what it generally does. A lot of force is involved in the process, and if your clutch is failing, it will struggle to handle that force.

Your Clutch Pedal Has a Spongy Feel

Your clutch pedal shouldn't feel spongy or soft when you depress it. Issues in the hydraulic system are usually the culprit in such cases. Common hydraulic problems that may cause a spongy clutch include air in the system and low fluid levels (caused by leaky hoses, pipes and connections).

Your Vehicle Is Slipping Out of Gears

Gear slippage is another classic sign of a problematic clutch to watch out for. Slipping is a common sign of a worn clutch disc. Generally, when you release your clutch pedal and step on the accelerator, your car should move as fast as your engine's RPMs. However, if your engine is racing but your vehicle is moving slowly, chances are you have a clutch slippage problem. You are most likely to notice this in situations that require more power from your engine, such as when shifting into higher gears, driving up a hilly road or carrying a heavy load. Keep in mind that a slipping clutch tends to overheat other clutch components. Therefore, to avoid increasing the intensity of the problem or damage, have the clutch checked by a clutch repair company as soon as possible.


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