Four Warning Signs That Your Clutch is Going

The smell of burning coming from your vehicle is a definite cause for concern, whether it’s coming from the clutch or another area. A burning smell could be from damaged wiring or leaking oil, however, if the smell becomes more noticeable when you are changing gears, it may be a problem with your clutch. The smell of burning may be caused by the friction of a slipping clutch. If you also hear a rattling sound, you should look into having your clutch replaced as soon as possible. 

When you first purchase a car, moving the clutch and changing between gears should be effortless and smooth. If, after a while, you notice that changing gears becomes more difficult and you feel a grind when you shift gears or put your vehicle into reverse, this could be a sign that your clutch needs replacing. An old, worn out clutch can be unpleasant to use and dangerous. 

The clutch should take a bit of pressure to move, and when you press down, you should be met with some resistance. If the clutch pedal feels ‘spongey’ or feels like you’re pushing it into a block of warm butter, your clutch is likely going to need to be replaced soon. Like everything, clutches have a lifespan, and this is the earliest sign that your clutch is on its way out. 

If, when you try to engage the clutch, you can feel it slipping, this is another warning sign that the clutch is reaching the end of its lifespan. Your vehicle may feel like it is slipping between gear shifts and not moving easily up or down the gear changes. You may also find that your engine will rev, but your vehicle will not speed up. If this is the case, your clutch may need to be replaced. 

If you are looking for a vehicle technician who can repair or replace your clutch promptly and professionally, look no further than the experts at The Clutch & Gearbox Specialists in Bournemouth. Simply visit our website for more information on how we can help you today.