Clutch Repairs Portsmouth
Expert Clutch Repairs and Replacement Services in Portsmouth at Elite Garages
Put simply, a clutch is part of your car engine that allows you to change gears and come to a complete stop without turning off the engine. It acts as an intermediary between the engine’s power and transmitting it into motion on the wheels.
From every day use, the clutch can experience wear and tear, leading to a range of issues that will require professional attention at some point. If you’re in Portsmouth and need reliable clutch repairs and replacement services, Elite Garages is among the best as we offer dealership-quality service at competitive rates. You can even book a free clutch check if suspect something is not quite right.
How does a vehicle’s clutch work?
The clutch is composed of three core components: a clutch plate, pressure plate and flywheel. When engaged, the springs in the clutch press these pieces together resulting in an engine-to-shaft connection that transmits motion to the wheels. As you press down on the clutch pedal, its springs draw away the pressure plate from the momentum of the rotating wheels which disconnects from the engine to allow for smooth gear changes.
7 Signs you may need clutch repairs or a clutch replacement
As you’d expect from any hard-working car part, clutch wear and tear is unavoidable but how do you know when it needs attention? While it’s not always easy to identify a faulty clutch, there are a few things to keep an eye on:
- Clutch pedal making strange noises when engaging could indicate a problem with the clutch mechanism
- Struggling to change gears or a stiff gear level could be a sign of a worn or damaged clutch
- Rattling or grinding sound when changing gears are often indicative of a possible issue with the clutch or the gearbox
- If your clutch pedal vibrates when accelerating, the clutch plate could be damaged
- If you notice poor acceleration when revving the engine, your clutch could be slipping
- Another sign of clutch problems is when your engine revs randomly higher or lower
From minor components like bushes, pilot bearings, springs, screws to major parts such as the clutch disc, flywheel or release bearing — not forgetting issues with the drive train and chassis — are all possible indications that you may need clutch repairs or a replacement.
Driving habits to avoid
In addition to regular servicing, there are certain driving habits you should avoid to increase the longevity of your vehicle’s clutch. For instance, avoid resting your foot on the clutch pedal while driving, as this puts unnecessary pressure on the clutch and can cause premature wear. Also, avoid accelerating too hard or changing gears too aggressively, as this can put extra strain on the clutch.
In terms of the cost of a clutch replacement, it will largely depend on the particular problem and the type of vehicle. If you experience any clutch issues, you should get it checked by an expert clutch fitter, like Elite Garages Portsmouth. Our team of professionals is here to get you the answers, and we guarantee that we only use certified parts from major manufacturers. From initial diagnosis to clutch repairs or replacement, we are here to help!
Things to do and see in Portsmouth
While you wait, take some time to explore Portsmouth with incredible sights like The Spinnaker Tower, The Round Tower (built around 1418 to defend the entrance to Portsmouth Harbour) or the beautiful St Mary’s Church, not to mention beautiful beach walks!