The auto clutch is a very important part that connects the engine and transmission. You wouldn’t be able to start or shift gears without this important part. But sadly, the clutch is one of the car parts that wears out faster or slower depending on how you drive. So, at some point, every driver has to ask themselves if the clutch is broken and needs to be replaced.
How can you tell if your clutch is damaged?
You can tell if a clutch change is coming by looking for certain signs. These are:
Clutch slips, which means that the engine power doesn’t go up as the engine speed says it should.
- The gears are slow to engage.
- Gears come loose
- When the gears are engaged, the transmission unit makes a lot of noise.
- When the clutch is released, the start-up is rough.
TIP: Even though modern clutches last between 60,000 and 120,000 kilometers, you should have their function checked at a workshop on a regular basis to avoid clutch damage. A short test drive is all it takes for an experienced mechanic to find the signs of clutch damage.
Can the customer fix damage to the clutch?
If the clutch is broken, you have to replace it. To change the clutch yourself, you would have to place the vehicle on a lifting platform and remove the transmission. You can only put in the new clutch after that. But you need special tools to do this. Also, important test and torque values must be followed during installation. Therefore, if the clutch is defective, both the inspection and the repair should be carried out by a recognized automotive workshop.
How much does it cost to replace a clutch?
The costs for repairing clutch damage are mainly composed of two factors:
1. Work
You have to take out the transmission before you can put in the new clutch. Most of the time, a car mechanic can do this in two to four hours. If the clutch is broken on an all-wheel-drive car, the situation is different. In this case, the working time increases to around six to eight hours, as the clutch release bearing and slave cylinder are usually also replaced when the clutch is changed.
2. Costs of materials
It’s hard to figure out the cost of materials all at once. Using original parts from some car brands will definitely cost more than using parts from other brands. The parts for a normal clutch can cost up to 400 euros, so the total cost of fixing a broken clutch, which takes four hours of work, is about 1,200 euros. This number, on the other hand, is only a rough guide.
TIP: If your car has any of the signs of clutch damage listed above and you need to find a workshop, you should definitely compare prices first. In this regard, different websites offer free comparison calculators that can be used to figure out how much it will cost to fix a clutch without having to pay anything. WA Auto Parts also sells parts and components that can be used to replace broken ones.
Conclusion
You can make a clutch last a lot longer if you drive carefully. For instance, you shouldn’t stand on the clutch pedal when you don’t need to. Instead, you should shift into neutral more often. Also, it’s better if you start off quickly and don’t let the clutch drag for too long.