The catch or bite point will change on your clutch when it is going bad. This is just one sign that you need to have the clutch adjusted, rebuilt, or replaced. The solution to the problem depends on how damaged the clutch is. Getz Automotive advises that one way to extend the life of your clutch is to have it adjusted every 6,000 miles. Aside from a change in the catch point, here are other signs that your clutch is going out and might need to be replaced.
Acceleration Lag
Part of what the clutch does is move the power from the engine to the transmission. Once this power has shifted, this is when you change the gears. This power is used to turn the driveshaft and your wheels. If the clutch cannot switch the power from the engine to the transmission effectively, your vehicle’s acceleration will lag and hesitate because the wheels aren’t turning.
Burning Clutch
Another sign that your clutch is wearing out in needs to be replaced is if you smell burning odors coming from it. This is an indication that the clutch is slipping. What this means is that the clutch is not staying engaged even though you haven’t released the clutch pedal.
Gear Problems
A slipping clutch can make it difficult to change your gears. Particularly if the clutch is engaged even though you think it is when you try to move the stick shift. Aside from the clutch slipping, your gears might also slip out of gear if the clutch is going bad. In other words, your RPMs will increase significantly and you will lose power because the automobile is in neutral.
Grinding Noises
A slipping clutch will also cause you to grind your gears when you shift them. Again, if the power is still with the engine, you will grind the gears in the transmission. This is definitely an indication that your clutch is wearing out and needs to be replaced.
Spongy Clutch
Finally, if your clutch is not giving you resistance when you press down on it, it needs to be replaced. Oftentimes, a clutch will feel soft or spongy when it is going out. It might also sink all the way to the floor without catching so you can shift gears.
Call Getz Automotive in Fuquay-Varina, NC, today if you are having problems with your vehicle’s clutch. We will inspect the clutch to see if it can be rebuilt or if it needs to be replaced.