The smooth operation of your vehicle relies on a vital component known as the clutch. Responsible for allowing power to be transferred from the engine to the wheels while also being able to interrupt the power during gear changes or when stationary, the clutch plays a critical role in the driving experience.

What is a clutch?

The clutch is one of the most important elements of your cars driving operation. Your engine is what causes your wheels to rotate, but what happens when your vehicle needs to stop? The engine shouldn't stop turning but the wheels need to. The clutch is what allows this to happen.

Using a system of plates, wheels and springs the clutch allows the transfer of power from the engine to the wheels to be interrupted while a gear is being changed or while the car is stationary and the engine continues to run.

Some cars have clutches which work hydraulically - when you press the clutch pedal the clutch fluid moves the pressure from the pedal through to the clutch and disengages the power transmission. Leaking clutch fluid can cause all kinds of problem in your vehicle so it is very important to monitor it regularly. At Angel Auto Services we check your clutch fluid, hydraulic system or clutch cables for you in the course of our free 65 Point Vehicle Inspection report - which you can request as part of every car service.

If we suspect a problem or leak in your clutch we will include this in our written report or let you know directly if we feel it needs immediate attention.

You should have your clutch looked at if :

• You notice a Burnt ‘toast' or ‘burning rubber' smell in your car, or smoke from under vehicle
• Your Vehicle is slipping out of gear for no reason
• There is jerky or sticky gear operation
• Your clutch is not disengaging fully, or your clutch is sticking or shuddering

If your clutch is showing any of the symptoms above - it can mean any number of faults. Clutch problems are difficult to diagnose by symptoms alone because many issues cause the same symptoms, depending on the vehicle and type of engine.

The best way to deal with clutch shuddering, slipping or noise is call us at Angel Auto Services today.

We can perform Clutch service and repairs on most makes and models right here in our Doyalson workshop.