Clutch and Gearbox

CLUTCH AND GEARBOX / TRANSMISSION REPAIR

Typically the reason why clutches fail early is from either accidental abuse such as riding the clutch unnecessarily or from frequently towing very heavy loads. For vehicles that are modified to make more power than standard, an upgrade to a heavy-duty clutch kit might be necessary in order to get a longer lifespan, especially if your vehicle is driven hard.

CLUTCH INSPECTIONS AND REPAIRS

The clutch serves the important role of transferring engine torque to the driveline. There are several methods to achieve this, but the unique feature of a clutch is its ability to provide controlled ‘slip.’ This means it can manage varying levels of torque transfer, from completely locked to fully disengaged. In a manual vehicle, pressing the clutch pedal disconnects the driveline from the engine, relieving pressure on the gearbox and enabling smooth gear changes. Automatic vehicles may also utilize clutch packs, which are integrated within the gearboxes and often come as sealed units.

For how long last a clutch?

Clutches are similar to tyres, brake pads and wiper blades in that they are consumable items that wear out over time. Most clutches typically last between 40,000 and 100,000 kilometres depending on driving habits and whether you use the vehicle for towing.

SYMPTOMS OF A FAILING CLUTCH

Typically, you will begin to experience issues with a clutch before it finally fails. The most common signs of a failing clutch are:

Difficulty changing between gears including grinding
Jumping and jerking around while taking off from a standstill
Engine revs increasing with the associated speed increase
Strong smells from the clutch slipping
Unusual clutch pedal behaviour such as being stuck in a certain position
The clutch pedal falls to the floor and stays there.

We're here for you

If you suspect a problem with your car clutch, it’s best to take care of it as soon as possible to avoid further disrepair. Call our garage as soon as you begin to hear your car struggle to start so our team of certified technicians can properly inspect and diagnose it.