A clutch is a device that connects two rotating shafts or objects, allowing them to spin at the same speed when connected together, or at different speeds when separated.
The automobile clutch connects the engine that spins all the time, and the wheels that do not rotate all the time. Applying the clutch and brake in tandem connects the engine shaft to the wheel shaft, allowing the engine to respond to the reduced rotation of the wheels, facilitating slowing, or stopping the car without the engine shutting down.
A good clutch ensures a smooth and efficient run, and problems with the clutch lead to a rough ride and poor fuel efficiency. Timely clutch problems diagnosis and prompt clutch repair make driving a hassle free affair.
Normal Clutch Life
A normal car clutch in an automatic transmission vehicle lasts around 50,000 miles. Clutches in manual transmission vehicles tend to last longer and may last for 100,000 miles. The actual life of the clutch however depends on usage. Careful handling extends the clutch’s life to between 80,000 miles and 120,000 miles, whereas rough usage could end the clutch’s life at around 35,000 miles. Frequent use of the clutch owing to rash driving, when driving through bad roads and through areas of high traffic tend to wear away the clutch faster.
Common Clutch Problems and Symptoms
The following are the most common clutch problems and their symptoms:
- The clutch has a disc or a steel plate that plays a pivotal role in the movement of the clutch. The wearing out of the friction material on this disc hampers clutch movement and leads to poor gas mileage and poor acceleration.
- "Sticking" or failure of the clutch to release properly when pressed causes grinding, and prevents the car from going into gear smoothly.
- A "hard" clutch or the need to use excessive force to press the clutch results in a crunching noise.
- "Slipping" Clutch or the clutch continuing to hold even when released increases the load on the engine and contributes to decreased fuel efficiency.
- "Chattering" or a jerking condition when engaging the clutch leads to a rough ride.
Manifestation of the above-mentioned symptoms might necessitate clutch repair or clutch replacement.
Diagnosis
The above-mentioned symptoms might be a result of problems related to transmission rather than the clutch. Two tests determine the clutch problems diagnosis:
- Try changing gears when the engine is off. If the gears shift fine, then the clutch might need repair or replacement.
- Stop the car on a level road with the hand break pulled up and ignition on. Change to the top gear and release the clutch while depressing the gas pedal. If the car engine does not stall when the car moves, the problem is a worn out clutch that needs replacing.
Prompt diagnosis and timely car clutch repair leads to a smooth and hassle free driving and also improves fuel economy.
Reference
Diagnosing and Replacing a Faulty Clutch. http://www.aa1car.com
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Nayab Naseer - Nayab Naseer is a Post Graduate in Human Resource Management with 10+ years of corporate work experience. He is an extensive writer ...
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