Ideally, your car should drive smoothly and one of the best ways to ensure this is by using the clutch properly. However, bad driving habits not only cause an uncomfortable ride, but could also damage your car and clutch in particular. Here is what you should know about getting the most of your clutch:
Tips to reduce wear and tear to your clutch
- Do not ride the clutch; only use it when necessary
- Do not treat the clutch as a foot rest
- Avoid downshifting each time you slow down the vehicle
- Fully disengage the clutch between gear changes
- Fully engage the clutch when changing gears
- With a manual transmission, it is best to put the car in neutral and take your foot off the clutch – this will prolong the life of the clutch release bearing. When it’s time to go, just push the clutch and select first gear ready to go.
Common clutch failure symptoms
- Clutch pedal makes noises when engaging and disengaging
- Clutch pedal is hard to engage, or feels loose or feels ‘spongey’
- Clutch pedal sticks to the floor
Should you suspect or experience any problems with your clutch, we highly recommend that you have a qualified technician attend to it immediately to avoid further damage, expensive repairs or causing an accident.
