Your clutch pedal should give you the same amount of resistance that it gave you when your automobile was new. If the resistance level has changed, such as the pedal has become soft and spongy, it’s likely time to have your clutch rebuilt or replaced. LP & Sons Auto Care can inspect your clutch to determine the extent of the damage and replace it if necessary. Aside from changes in the resistance level of the clutch, here are other signs that your clutch needs to be replaced.
Higher Catch Point
The point at which the clutch catches can also change when the clutch is going bad. Usually, the catch point gets higher in a clutch that needs to be replaced. You may notice this in conjunction with changes in the resistance of the clutch pedal, or you may notice this problem by itself. Either way, bring your vehicle to our shop to have the clutch inspected if the catch point has changed.
Burning Clutch Odors
Another sign that your clutch is going out is if it is heating up. In other words, you will smell burning odors coming from the clutch. This is an indication that the clutch is slipping out of engagement. This can be caused by internal mechanisms that have worn out and need to be replaced.
Problems Shifting Gears
A slipping clutch will make it difficult if not impossible to shift gears. You need your clutch to stay engaged so that the power does not go back to the engine. The clutch removes the power from the engine and transfers it to the transmission so you can shift gears smoothly and seamlessly. A slipping clutch transfers the power back to the engine before you have finished shifting gears.
Acceleration Lag
You may also end up with lagging vehicle acceleration if the clutch is going out. Again, this is because it is not transferring the power properly between the engine and the transmission. If the transmission is not being powered, it cannot turn the drivetrain. Consequently, your vehicle’s acceleration will lag.
Grinding/Squealing Sounds
Finally, if your clutch is disengaged when you try to shift gears you will grind them. You may also hear squealing sounds coming from the transmission or squeaking sounds coming from the clutch. All of these signs indicate you need a new clutch.
Call LP & Sons Auto Care in DeLand, FL, today if you are having problems with your vehicle’s clutch or manual transmission. We would be happy to inspect the clutch and replace it if necessary.