How to Diagnose a Slipping Clutch in Your Car
The clutch on a manual transmission car usually lasts anywhere from four to seven years, depending on where you drive (in the city, on hills, etc.) and your personal driving habits.
Difficulty: Easy
Instructions
- Note poor gas mileage.
- Notice if you need to downshift more frequently when going up hills.
- Take note if the engine sounds like it's revving when you accelerate or start moving from a stop.
- Be aware if the clutch can no longer be adjusted to create more pedal "free play."
- Notice if the clutch pedal begins to feel stiff and requires more force to depress it.
- Make sure the clutch is properly adjusted: You should feel about 1/2 inch of free play (or slack) at the clutch pedal when you first put your foot lightly on the clutch pedal.
- Put the handbrake on.
- Turn the engine on.
- Depress the clutch pedal and put the transmission in fourth gear.
- Slowly let up on the clutch while stepping on the gas pedal.
- If you are able to completely release the clutch pedal without the engine stalling (or the car moving), your clutch is history.
