While the flywheel, which is located between the clutch and manual transmission, is just one part of the drive system, damage to this component can prevent the storage of rotation energy and cause your vehicle to stall. In many cases, it’s possible to just replace or repair the single part if you catch the problem early enough. Here’s a closer look at how to identify issues so you can prevent more serious damage.

How to Know Your Flywheel Has Problems

1. Slipping Gears

One of the most obvious signs of a problem is a vehicle that’s slipping gears. When this happens, you’ll feel the engine rev without a reason and possibly jerk as the transmission slips back into first or second gear.

This problem may stem from the clutch or a faulty flywheel. Letting this problem persist can cause more extensive damage to your transmission, so it’s important to have a professional look at your vehicle as early as possible.

2. Vibrating Clutch

When the transmission is in good condition, you shouldn’t feel any unusual sensation as you depress the clutch. If the pedal vibrates under your foot, though, a damaged flywheel or a misalignment between this component and the clutch is usually to blame. A vibration that gets progressively worse may indicate that the spring mounts are faulty. 

3. Burning Smell 

If you smell a strong burning odor as you use your clutch, there’s a problem that’s causing the facings on the clutch to absorb more friction. This can be caused by a driver that’s improperly operating the clutch, but it can also be caused by a damaged flywheel. If you’re confident that you’re driving the vehicle correctly, take the vehicle to a transmission professional to find out what’s going on.

4. Dragging Clutch

This is the opposite of a slipping clutch and can affect your ability to drive the vehicle at all. This occurs when the disk fails to disengage from the flywheel when you press the clutch pedal. You may hear and feel the gears grinding but be unable to shift. This can be caused by either the bearings or the bushings getting out of alignment in the flywheel or crankshaft. 

Problems with the flywheel or any other part of your transmission can leave you stranded or cause more extensive damage. Friendly Transmission Service Inc in High Point, NC, is here to help you diagnose and repair any problem you may be having. Backed by more than 34 years of experience, their ASE®-certified technicians can repair or install transmissions on most types of vehicles. Learn more about their services online or call (336) 882-1164 to make an appointment today.