If you own a manual transmission vehicle, few components will be more important for your driving experience than the clutch. Unfortunately, bad habits can result in unnecessary clutch repair expenses or even the need for a complete replacement. By following a few simple tips, you can extend your clutch’s life span and enjoy significant savings on service.

How to Postpone Clutch Repairs

1. Never Ride the Clutch

It can be tempting to let your foot rest on the clutch pedal when not in use. However, the additional pressure causes you to “ride” the clutch while driving, subjecting this part to extra wear and tear. The only time your foot should touch the clutch pedal is when you need to press it.

2. Brake Carefully

Some drivers make the mistake of using the clutch to slow down, thinking it will help their brake pads last longer. Remember, repairing the clutch is more expensive than replacing the brake pads. Instead, try to coast to a stop when possible, and only press the clutch pedal when the engine begins to struggle during braking. The less you use the clutch while braking, the longer you can go without clutch repairs.

3. Use the Handbrake

Many drivers will engage the clutch when stopped on a hill. While this will keep the vehicle from rolling off, it can put extreme strain on the clutch. A better practice is to use the handbrake (or parking brake) to hold the vehicle in place until you are ready to shift into gear.

Reliable clutch repair is best achieved by visiting the team at Quality Transmission Service in Anchorage, AK. Their ASE®-certified technicians pride themselves on providing affordable, timely service for all makes and models. To learn more about their transmission services or to request a free repair estimate, visit them online or call (907) 561-8767.