When the clutch in your car slips, it means it is not transferring all of the engine’s power to the wheels as it should. This can make your car feel sluggish as if it is struggling to get up, especially when you’re trying to accelerate and merge onto a highway. It is not just annoying; it can be somewhat risky, making it hard to drive safely if you suddenly need to speed up. But don’t worry too much. Figuring out why your clutch is slipping and how to fix it isn’t as scary as it sounds. Let’s walk you through what usually causes the clutch to slip and how you can get it fixed, so you can drive smoothly and safely again.
Common Causes of a Slipping Clutch
Worn Clutch Disc
When the clutch disc in your vehicle wears out, the clutch will start to slip, which means it will not be able to hold onto the engine as well, and your car won’t get all the power it’s asking for. This usually happens after your car has been driven a lot or if you’ve been driving in tough conditions, like hauling heavy stuff or in lots of stop-and-go traffic.
Faulty Pressure Plate
The pressure plate is like a big strong hand that pushes the clutch disc against the engine. If that hand does not push hard enough because it’s tired or hurt (like when the springs inside are worn out or it gets bent out of shape), the clutch disc can’t grab the engine properly. This makes the clutch slip, and just like with a worn-out clutch disc, your car won’t feel as peppy because it’s not getting all the power it needs.
Contaminated Clutch Components
Imagine spilling oil on the floor and then trying to walk on it; you’d slip, right? The same thing happens if oil or grease gets on the clutch disc or the part of the engine it grabs onto (the flywheel). This could be because of leaks or just not keeping things clean. The oil makes the clutch disc slip instead of grabbing, which messes with your car’s power.
Steps to Fix a Slipping Clutch
Figure Out The Issue
First, check if the clutch is actually slipping. You’ll know if when you rev the engine, your car doesn’t speed up as it should, shifting gears feels tough, and when you smell something burning. These signs tell you it’s time to look closer and fix things up.
Check The Clutch Parts
Now, take a good look at the clutch itself, which includes the clutch disc, pressure plate, and flywheel. You’re checking for any signs they’re worn out, damaged, or dirty. If the clutch disc looks worn down, the pressure plate looks misshapen from heat, or there’s oil or grease where it shouldn’t be, these could be the reasons your clutch isn’t holding its grip.
Replace Bad Parts
If any parts of the clutch look bad, they need to be replaced. This usually means taking the transmission out to get to the clutch, which is a big job. You might need to replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, or throw-out bearing. It’s very important to put everything back just right, according to the car maker’s instructions, so everything works smoothly again.
Adjust the Clutch
Make sure the clutch pedal is set up right. If it’s not adjusted properly, it won’t let the clutch engage and disengage the way it should, which can cause slipping. You might need to tighten or loosen the clutch cable, or if your clutch works with hydraulics, make sure it’s got the right amount of fluid and pressure.
Test Drive
After you’ve done all the fixes, take your car for a drive to see how it feels. Pay attention to how the clutch feels and how your car shifts gears. If everything feels good and there’s no more slipping, you’ve likely fixed the problem, and your car is set to go.
Let The Professionals At Lancer Service Fix Your Car Clutch
At Lancer Service, we have a reputation for 
always delivering the best service to customers in St. Paul, MN and the surrounding areas. Our mechanics? They are ASE-certified thus they are well-trained to cater to any problems. And our garage? It’s packed with all the tools we need to figure out what’s up with your car. Now, if your gear is on the fritz and slipping when it shouldn’t, you have nothing to worry about. Call us now.