Clutch replacement & repair made easy

How does a clutch work?

A clutch is a part of a car that lets you control the connection between the engine and the wheels. Imagine it's like a switch that can turn the power from the engine on and off. When you press the clutch pedal with your foot, it disconnects the engine from the wheels, which makes it easier to change gears. This way, the gears don’t grind against each other.

Once you change the gear and release the clutch pedal, the connection between the engine and the wheels is restored, and the car can move and speed up smoothly. This makes driving more efficient and helps you control the car better.

Whilst it may seem the clutch is a complex unit, it is in fact relatively simple in its base format. The components are a friction plate, a cover and a bearing, with a mechanism to “pull” it away from the turning flywheel. This mechanism can either be cable or hydraulically operated by the clutch pedal.

If you consider it, it works in the opposite way to a brake. Press the brake pedal down and it forces the brake pads onto the disc. Press the clutch pedal down and it releases the pad from the disc.

In automatic cars, there is no clutch pedal for the driver to operate. Instead, the car uses an automatic transmission system to handle gear changes on its own. This system relies on a component called a torque converter. The torque converter connects the engine to the transmission and uses fluid to transfer power smoothly.

What does a clutch replacement job involve?

Clutches are replaced as a kit. The kit will comprise the friction plate, the cover and either a release bearing or a concentric slave cylinder. This latter part, known as a CSC, is an internal slave cylinder on hydraulically operated mechanisms. As it is prone to wear, these are automatically replaced where they are present.

There are of course other, more complex versions, with dual mass flywheels, semi-automatic gearboxes (where the manual operation of the clutch is replaced by electrically controlled solenoids), but in essence the actual end way it works is the same.

Changing a clutch is a routine repair for all mechanics and can be done at your location providing it is an engine of no more than 1600cc and providing it is safe to do so. If this isn’t the case, the vehicle will have to be done in a workshop/ garage.

A clutch replacement job involves several key steps to ensure your car's clutch works properly again. Here’s a simplified overview of the process:

• First, the mechanic raises the car using a lift or jack so they can work underneath it.
• The transmission, which connects the engine to the wheels, needs to be carefully disconnected and removed to access the clutch.
• Once the transmission is out of the way, the mechanic can reach the clutch. They remove the old, worn-out clutch parts, which include the clutch plate, pressure plate, and release bearing.
• The mechanic checks related parts, like the flywheel (which the clutch plate presses against) is usually replaced at the same time as the clutch fork, to ensure they are in good condition.
  
• The new clutch components are then installed including the new clutch disc, pressure plate, and release bearing (also known as a throw-out bearing).
• The mechanic will also adjust the clutch pedal's free play and ensure proper alignment of the clutch components.
• The mechanic carefully reattaches the transmission to the engine, ensuring all connections are secure.
• Finally, the mechanic tests the new clutch to make sure it engages and disengages properly and that the car shifts gears smoothly.

This job requires skill and precision, which is why it’s best done by a professional mechanic.

How do I know whether I need a clutch repair or replacement?

Knowing whether you need a clutch repair or replacement involves looking out for certain signs while driving. Here are some key things to look out for:

• If you notice the engine revs increasing without your car accelerating as it should, the clutch might be slipping. This is a common sign that the clutch is worn out and might need replacement.

• If you have trouble shifting gears or hear grinding noises when you try to change gears, it could mean the clutch isn’t fully disengaging. This might need repair or replacement.

• If the clutch pedal feels spongy, soft, or sticks to the floor when you press it, there could be a problem with the clutch’s hydraulic system or a worn-out part.

• A burning rubber smell, especially after driving in heavy traffic or on hills, can indicate that the clutch is overheating due to slipping. This usually means the clutch is worn and may need replacement.

• If the clutch engages (or bites - this is the point when you feel the vehicle moving from stationary for example) very high on the pedal, it could be a sign that the clutch is wearing out and may soon need replacement.

Should I book a clutch replacement and flywheel replacement at the same time?

Deciding whether to book both a clutch replacement and a flywheel replacement at the same time depends on the condition of both parts.

If you’re experiencing issues like slipping, difficulty shifting gears, or a spongy pedal, you probably need a clutch replacement. The clutch is a part that wears out over time, and these signs usually mean it’s time for a new one.

The flywheel is a metal disc that the clutch presses against. When the mechanic is replacing the clutch, they will inspect the flywheel. If it’s smooth and in good shape, it can often be reused. However, if it’s cracked, warped, or badly worn, it should be replaced too.

In general, it is highly recommended to replace the clutch and flywheel at the same if you want to ensure maximum performance and longevity from your new clutch. This way, the cost of labour will be lower since the mechanic is already working in that area of the car.

If you’re not sure, you can book a clutch replacement and ask the mechanic to inspect the flywheel during the job.

What does the clutch replacement cover?

When booking with ClickMechanic, unless otherwise stated, the quote for your clutch to be replaced will cover;

• The cost of the clutch kit, the gearbox fluid to top up the unit and hydraulic fluid top up if required
• Coming to you (under 1600cc) or collection of the vehicle providing it is driveable
• Fitting of the parts
• Disposal of the old parts (unless you request to keep them)
• VAT (if applicable)
• 12 months parts and labour warranty

If your vehicle is over 1600cc and undrivable, there may be a recovery fee required in order to take the vehicle into the workshop. Should you have a breakdown recovery contract that will cover this, then once the work has been allocated to a garage, you can contact the breakdown recovery provider and let them know where the vehicle is being taken. In a similar vein, if you have the facility to get the vehicle there yourself, then this too is ideal, otherwise, you will need to budget around £100 for its collection.

What happens if the mechanic finds that the clutch doesn’t require changing and the problem is due to another issue?

In this scenario, when booking with ClickMechanic, the mechanic will provide a no-obligation quote for the correct repair. Should you accept this, the mechanic can alter the booking accordingly. If you decide not to go ahead with the alternative repair, the mechanic can change the booking to a call-out and diagnostic booking and charge according to the time spent with the vehicle and call-out.