If your clutch is going bad, it may start to feel different underneath your foot. Speed Auto Repair advises that the clutch may start to feel soft or spongy or become very difficult to press down. It may also sink all the way to the floorboard without catching. This is just one sign that you need to replace the clutch. We are going to discuss the other signs of a malfunctioning clutch below.
Changes in the Catch Point
You may also notice changes in the catch point. This is the place in the clutch where you shift gears. This point generally gets higher on a clutch that is starting to go bad. In some cases, we may be able to readjust the catch point by adjusting the clutch. We may also be able to fix the problem by rebuilding the clutch. In severe cases, we will have to replace the clutch.
A Clutch That Smells Hot
Another sign that your clutch needs to be replaced is if it smells hot. A burning clutch is a clutch that is slipping out of engagement. This means, that you lose the catch point at which to shift gears. Consequently, when the clutch is not engaged, you will have problems shifting the gears and the gears will grind. More on that next.
Grinding, Squealing, or Squeaking Noises
If your gears are grinding every time that you shift them, this is definitely a sign that the clutch is going bad. The fact that the gears are grinding is an indication that the clutch has not transferred the power away from the engine. You may also hear squealing noises when you shift the gears or squeaking noises when you press down on the clutch.
Hesitation When Accelerating
Another sign that the clutch is not transferred the power to the transmission is hesitation when you try to get your vehicle to accelerate after you release the clutch. If the clutch has slipped out of engagement, the power cannot be transferred to the transmission so it can turn the drivetrain. Unfortunately, your wheels will not turn.
Problems Shifting the Gears
Finally, it only makes sense that you will have problems shifting the gears if the clutch has gone bad. Specifically, you may be unable to get your automobile to go into first gear or shift through the gear cycle. It may also refuse to go into reverse.
Speed Auto Repair in Alpharetta, GA, and Speed Auto Repair in Roswell, GA, is here to help so call us today if you are having problems with your vehicle’s clutch.