What to expect with a New Clutch

You have a new clutch!  it may take you a bit of time to adjust to driving your car again.  Here are some things you will notice. 

The clutch pedal may seem easier to push

On most cars the release bearing moves along a guide shaft on the front of the transmission.  Part of the repair is replacing the release bearing and cleaning and lubricating the release bearing guide.  This is not a symptom of a weak clutch, but a benefit of a smooth release bearing guide.

The engagement point may have changed

On a car equipped with a hydraulic release system the master cylinder will adjust automatically to a wearing clutch.  When the disc wears below the service limit the release point on the pedal slowly moves toward the top of the stroke.  This change may take weeks or months, and you probably did not notice it happening.  After the new clutch is installed the release point may be lower. 

You may stall your car on the first several attemps

This is normal, and we consider it a sign of a good job.  The worn clutch was not able to transfer all of the torque to the wheels.  A new clutch will deliver all of the torque to the wheels.  This may surprise you, and with the change in the release point you will probably stall your car once or twice.  It may take a few times, but you will soon be shifting smoothly again

You may hear a slight friction noise when first starting out

Part of a clutch replacement service is resurfacing the flywheel.  The small grooves from this service will make a slight noise while it wears in.  This is normal and should go away after a few hundred miles.

What to look for after a Clutch Repair

Unusual Oil Leaks

Transmission seals often become brittle with age.  If a seal cracked while removing an axle or drive shaft, it may result in a leak.  If you notice a new leak bring the car back as soon as possible so we can check it for you.

Changing pedal release point

On a car with a hydraulic release system the master and slave cylinders compensate for clutch wear.  When a new clutch is installed the hydraulic system is returned to the original system.  Internal seals in the hydraulic system may be to old and brittle to handle this change and they may fail.  If the pedal feels to soft and the car is hard to get into gear, the hydraulic release system may have failed.  Bring the car back as soon as possible so we can check the hydraulic system for you.

Hydraulic fluid level change

If you notice a dramatic change in the clutch fluid level, please return for an inspection.  If the system is leaking fluid it needs to be addressed as soon as possible.

Don't forget your free Clutch Inspection

To maintain the warranty, bring your car in every 6 months fro a free inspection.  We will check the hydraulic level, the adjutment and make sure every thing is working as it should.  You never need an appointment, just stop in.  We are a full service repair facility, schedule an Oil change too!