If the clutch feels strange in your European automobile, RSW European Auto Repair advises that it could be going bad. If you have over 100,000 miles on the odometer, the clutch has lived its life. The average lifespan of a clutch ranges between 50,000 miles and 100,000 miles. Strange sensations, such as sponginess or a higher catch point, or an indication that the clutch needs to be serviced at a minimum. Here are other signs that your clutch is going bad.
An Overheating Clutch
If you smell hot odors wafting from the clutch, the internal mechanisms are worn out and the clutch is slipping. We may be able to rebuild the clutch to resolve the problem. If not, we will have to replace it. A slipping clutch is a clutch that does not stay engaged. Consequently, the power transfer from the engine to the transmission will slip back to the engine and cause the following problems.
Grinding Gears
The first thing you may notice is that your gears will grind when you shift them. This is a sign that the power is not with the transmission where it should be. Even if you feel your clutch catch, if it has slipped out of engagement, the power will remain with the engine. Consequently, this will cause the gears to grind even if you are an experienced manual transmission driver.
Difficulty Shifting Gears
You may also have difficulty shifting the gears because, again, the clutch has slipped and the power is with the engine. You need the power with the transmission for seamless gear shifts. If you have difficulties getting your vehicle into gear or shifting through the gear cycle, bring your automobile to our shop right away so we can determine the condition of the clutch.
Acceleration Hesitation
Another sign that the clutch is slipping is hesitation when you try to accelerate your vehicle. This, too, points to a problem with the power transfer between the engine and the transmission. The transmission needs the power to turn the drivetrain, i.e., your European automobile’s wheels. If the power remains with the engine, the acceleration will hesitate because the wheels are not turning.
Strange Clutch Noises
Finally, your clutch may start to make strange noises when you use it if it is going bad. The most common sound is squeaking. If your clutch squeaks when you press down on it and when you release it, bring your European automobile to our shop.
We are RSW European Auto Repair in Green Brook Township, NJ, and we are here to help, so call us today to schedule an appointment for your European automobile.