Clutch-Related Problems That Need Attention from an Auto Repair Mechanic
If you drive a manual transmission vehicle, you cannot underestimate the importance of its clutch. The clutch is tasked with ensuring that your car can move so any issues that you experience with this auto part should have you visiting an auto shop immediately. A few of the typical symptoms of clutch decline include sticking or slipping gears and having trouble engaging the gears entirely. It is also worth noting that several problems could cause your clutch to determinate and subsequently make it difficult for you to operate your vehicle.
This article outlines three clutch-related problems that would need the attention of an auto repair mechanic.
1. The master cylinder is leaking
Clutches typically come in two kinds: cable-operated and hydraulic-operated. The latest car models are outfitted with a hydraulic system that contains fluid in the master cylinders. This fluid is pressurised so that the clutch can engage when you need it to. If a leak springs in the master cylinder, it means the fluid cannot build enough pressure. As a result, the clutch will start to stick. Although this issue can also come about when the transmission fluid is depleted, it is imperative to have an auto repair mechanic investigate the system to check is a leak has gone undiagnosed.
2. The pressure plate or the disc is damaged
Your vehicle's clutch is made of several components. Considering the high usage that the clutch is exposed to when driving, it is only a matter of time when the clutch begins to degrade. This degradation tends to affect two primary components, which are the pressure plate and the disc. The pressure plate is tasked with anchoring the disc to the clutch's flywheel and this ensures that both the disc and flywheel are spinning in tandem. When the pressure plate begins to decline, it cannot secure the disc sufficiently. As a result, the disc loses its ability to spin at the same speed as the flywheel, which leads to damage to the disc too. When these parts are damaged, you will begin to experience challenges picking up speed when driving and intense vibrations from the clutch.
2. The flywheel is warped
Speaking of the flywheel, this component can also acquire damage that would directly influence the functioning of the clutch. The flywheel works to deliver torque to the engine by storing rotational energy. If the flywheel starts to overheat, it begins to warp and this impedes its function. Not to mention that excessive overheating will cause it to crack altogether. If you begin to experience problems with gears slipping, you may need an auto repair mechanic to investigate the flywheel.
