Manual transmission vehicles are not as common as automatics, but if you drive one, you likely enjoy the feeling of control over the car. However, manual vehicles are prone to auto repairs in an area that doesn’t impact automatic transmissions—the clutch. Years of use can wear down the clutch and lead to significant problems without prompt service. Below are a few signs that you should take your manual car to an auto repair shop to fix this component.

How to Tell if Your Clutch Is Failing

1. Grinding

When you shift between gears, the transition should be smooth. If the transmission makes a loud grinding noise or vibrates while you’re shifting, your clutch could be wearing out. However, this could also be an issue with your synchronizers, which ensure that the gears engage smoothly. Because the symptoms are the same, you’ll need an auto repair expert to diagnose and resolve the problem.

2. Failing to Shift Into Gear

If your clutch pedal is easy to push to the floor, but your car struggles to shift into the next gear, you may have a leak in the hydraulic system. You’ll notice difficulty moving the shifter to the next gear, and the car may jerk when it does shift.

The hydraulic fluid flows to cylinders that convert the power of your foot into movement in the clutch. If hydraulic fluid is escaping, the clutch may not move fully, and you cannot change the gears easily. You may also have air in the hydraulic system, which will make the clutch feel spongy when you depress it.

3. Burning

A burning smell from your car can due to an oil leak or damaged belt, but if it is more noticeable when you’re shifting, the clutch may be slipping and creating excess friction. When it does, you’ll smell an odor like burning toast, followed by a rattling noise when you take your foot off the clutch. This happens when metal components grind against each other. Without quick attention, you could damage the transmission, which is costly to replace.

If you need help keeping your clutch working smoothly, contact Mullanphy Tire & Automotive in Florissant, MO. Their certified technicians are skilled at servicing and repairing all makes and models. Whether you need an oil change, tire replacement, or comprehensive engine services, they provide timely, affordable repairs. Learn more about their services online. Call (314) 921-4961 to schedule auto repairs.