How to tell if your clutch is slipping
Friday 27th September 2024
Like any part of your car, the clutch is prone to wear and tear over time. If you hear unusual noises, or the clutch pedal feels sticky when pressed down, it could signal your clutch is on its way out. Spot the signs to look out for with a slipping clutch with Formula One Autocentres’ informative guide.
What is clutch slipping?
This involves the clutch constantly engaging and disengaging as your car struggles to stay in gear while accelerating. Not only will your vehicle lose power while driving, but it will also make it harder to control. If you notice your clutch slipping, it may be down to:
- A worn-out clutch.
- The clutch is not adjusted correctly.
- There is a lack of lubrication on the clutch.
What does a clutch do?
The clutch connects and disconnects the power from the engine to the wheels, allowing you to change gears in your manual car and stop it while the engine is still running. Without the clutch, you would be unable to drive it, making it an essential component of your vehicle. Typically, a clutch is made up of three parts:
- The clutch plate
- The pressure plate
- The flywheel
How long does a clutch last?
What factors can impact your clutch’s lifespan?
- Mileage – Most clutches will last for 50,000 to 100,000 miles before they need to be replaced.
- Driving style – Fast gear changes and harsh acceleration can impact the lifespan of the clutch.
- Maintenance – Not keeping on top of car maintenance and having regular servicing can impact the clutch’s condition.
What are the symptoms of a slipping clutch?
You may notice your clutch slipping when experiencing the following signs:
- A squeaky or grumbling noise when applying pressure to the clutch.
- You find it difficult to change gears.
- The clutch pedal feels sticky, vibrates or appears spongey or loose.
- You experience poor acceleration, but the engine continues to rev.
- Momentary loss of acceleration caused by the feeling of a ‘slipping’ clutch.
Can I drive with a slipping clutch?
No, we recommend not driving with a slipping clutch. Driving with a worn clutch can cause significant damage to various components in your car, including the engine and gearbox.
What should I do if my clutch is slipping?
If you notice your clutch slipping, you should stop driving and get it checked. A worn or slipping clutch is not only dangerous to you but also to other motorists on the road. We recommend pulling over in a safe place and getting your vehicle checked over by a professional. You can locate the closest branch to you, and our trained clutch expert can help.
Your clutch is not checked during your vehicle’s annual MOT test, so keep track of your mileage and if you notice any warning signs that the clutch is worn, locate your local Formula One Autocentres branch and book your free car clutch check today.
