The importance of the clutch in cars is immeasurable. This component establishes the connection between the engine and the gearbox, and if necessary, it can interrupt this cooperation. Although it is an extremely important part, there are many misconceptions about it. That’s why in our next article, we will go over the most essential facts about the clutch and, of course, place great emphasis on how to repair it if a fault is detected.

What Is a Clutch and What Are Its Functions in a Car?

The clutch, often referred to by experts as the crankshaft coupling, plays a critical role in a vehicle's operation. This more technical term highlights the component's significance and the way it controls several interconnected systems. Located between the engine and the transmission, the clutch’s primary role is to transmit the power generated by the engine to the gearbox.

In its default state, the clutch is engaged, meaning the connection between the engine and the transmission is active. The driver can alter this state using the clutch pedal. When the pedal is pressed, the clutch disc disengages, allowing the driver to move the gear lever. This disengagement enables smooth gear changes, and pressing the pedal is necessary when shifting between different gears.

The clutch is made up of three main components. The core part is the clutch mechanism, which is responsible for transferring the engine's torque to the transmission. The clutch disc connects and disconnects the engine from the drivetrain, depending on the pedal's position. Lastly, the release bearing plays a crucial role by transferring the pressure applied to the pedal directly to the clutch mechanism, making the entire operation possible.

What Are the Signs of Clutch Failure?

It’s difficult to give a one-size-fits-all answer, as clutch failure can present in various ways depending on which of the main components is damaged. However, there are several common symptoms that typically indicate more serious issues.

One of the most frequent complaints is that the clutch is slipping—a phrase even used in everyday language. This occurs when the engine’s RPM increases, but the vehicle doesn’t accelerate as expected. It’s particularly noticeable when driving uphill or trying to accelerate quickly. This issue is usually caused by a worn clutch disc or sometimes oil contamination within the clutch system.

Another common problem is difficulty shifting gears, or in more severe cases, being unable to shift at all. This often affects engaging first gear or reverse. The usual culprit is air in the hydraulic system or worn internal components.

Drivers may also notice vibrations or jerking during takeoff. When the clutch pedal is released and the car begins to move, the vehicle might shake or lurch. This could be a sign of a faulty flywheel or a damaged or contaminated clutch disc.

Finally, a burnt smell inside the car can also be a warning sign. This typically occurs during intensive clutch use, such as in stop-and-go traffic or on steep terrain. The smell may indicate clutch overheating and slippage, which is something to take seriously, as it can eventually require a full clutch replacement.

How Does Clutch Replacement Work, and Who Should You Turn To?

Of course, a full clutch replacement isn't always necessary—some smaller issues can be repaired, helping you avoid a more expensive fix. For example, if there's air in the clutch's hydraulic system or a leak is present, the problem can often be resolved with bleeding the system, replacing seals, or repairing the slave/master cylinder. Even if something feels off with the clutch pedal itself, a full replacement may not be required—adjustments or minor repairs to the pedal might be sufficient.

However, in more serious cases, replacement becomes unavoidable. This includes situations where you notice jerking during startup or the clutch only engages when the pedal is pressed all the way to the floor. Both symptoms indicate significant mechanical issues that can pose serious safety risks. Another red flag is when the car suddenly requires much more effort to get moving, or in more extreme cases, gear changes become difficult or impossible, or the vehicle won’t move at all.

When a clutch replacement is needed, it's essential to consult a professional mechanic. The process begins with lifting the car and, for safety, disconnecting the battery. The mechanic then removes the transmission and the old clutch assembly, and installs the new clutch components in the same order. Once reassembled, the repair concludes with a test drive to ensure that everything functions properly under real driving conditions. The entire procedure typically takes 4 to 8 hours, and due to the complexity and importance of each step, it’s highly recommended to leave this job to trained specialists.