Clutch Failure on a Suzuki Swift: The Signs Your Clutch Is Worn Out

Clutches don’t usually fail all at once. They wear out gradually, give plenty of warning, and then let go at the worst possible moment. This Suzuki Swift is a perfect example, and a good reason not to put off a clutch replacement once the signs start showing.

What happened to this Swift’s clutch

This Swift came in after a high-rpm shift, and the clutch definitely didn’t enjoy it. When we pulled it apart, the friction plate was heavily worn and had finally let go. The metal plate had broken, and one of the damper springs had come out of the plate.

The high-rpm shift was the final straw, not the real cause. Once a clutch is worn to this point, it’s not a matter of if it will fail, but when. We found the damage and got it sorted properly with a new clutch.

Warning signs of a worn clutch

Most clutch failures we see could have been planned for. Look out for:

• Slipping: the revs rise but the car doesn’t accelerate to match, especially going uphill or overtaking
• A high biting point: the clutch only engages near the top of the pedal travel
• A burning smell after hill starts, towing or stop-start traffic
• Juddering as you move off from a standstill
• Difficulty selecting gears, or grinding when you change gear
• Noises when you press or release the clutch pedal

That second clutch came from a different car entirely. Its owner must have just ignored all of the symptoms. It’s a common story, and the longer a worn clutch is driven, the more chance it has of damaging the flywheel and other parts too.

What a clutch replacement involves

Replacing a clutch means removing the gearbox to get to it. While it’s out, the job typically includes:

• A new clutch kit: the friction plate, pressure plate and release bearing
• Inspecting the flywheel, and machining or replacing it if it’s worn or heat damaged
• Checking the clutch hydraulics or cable, spigot bearing and gearbox seals for leaks or wear
• Refitting everything and road testing to make sure the clutch engages smoothly

Many modern cars, diesel utes in particular, use a dual mass flywheel. These can’t be machined like a solid flywheel, so when they wear out they need replacing.

How to make your clutch last longer

• Don’t rest your foot on the clutch pedal while driving
• Use the handbrake on hills instead of holding the car on the clutch
• Avoid aggressive, high-rpm launches and gear changes
• Get any slipping or new noises checked early

Clutch replacement on the Gold Coast

If your clutch is slipping, smelling or feeling different, don’t wait for it to fail on the road. Our repairs and diagnostics team handles clutch replacements for most makes and models, and our workshop is in Mudgeeraba. Call 0478 499 369 or contact us for a quote.