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Clutch is one of the car's parts that many of us take for granted. That third pedal sitting to the left of the accelerator and brake is fundamental for a manual transmission to work. As a multi-purpose device, it is needed to stop power transmission to the drive shaft so that you can change gears. It prevents the engine stalls when you are in gear at slow speeds. Also, it functions as a brake to slow down the car during engine braking. Problems occured to the clutch system is not only caused by the age of the clutch, but it also might be rooted from external factors which also affect the onset of symptoms of a damaged clutch.

• Clutch Judder
  Clutch judder is a phenomenon wherein the driver experiences vibrations on seat during the clutch engagement process for the vehicle launch, causing it to not grip properly or smoothly when engaging causing the juddering effect as it grips in part then slips repeatedly. Clutch judder is most noticeable when taking-off from a standstill. It manifests itself as a strong vibration when you release the clutch to get the car moving from rest.
  
  Other components of the clutch or flywheel may be slightly out of shape, defective, but mainly from being worn out or glazed to the point where it is unable to grip consistently from a complete stop to take-off.
  
  It's usually a sign your clutch or flywheel might need to be checked or replaced at some point in the near future. If the problem is only minor then it will likely not need urgent attention. In a newer car, or a make of car with a known problem in this area, it would be better to get it looked at sooner in case there is some underlying problem that is causing it.
  
  
• Clutch Slip
  A slipping clutch is a common problem that will happen at some point with a manual transmission vehicle. You may have heard of ‘ clutch slipping’, when your clutch is disengaging and no power is being delivered to the wheels in order to drive or push the vehicle forward. It is one of the most common clutch related concerns and occurs when there is not enough friction.
  
  Slip clutch will produce greater friction and heat. The hotter the surface of the clutch, the smaller the grip, so the slippage becomes more pronounced. In the long term, it can cause the clutch plate to burn and eventually damage the flywheel and pressure clutch surfaces. The easiest way to identify this is by taking the car on a drive. If there is a burning smell when the acceleration pedal is applied, this might be an indication that the clutch is slipping.
  
  There are a number of reasons why this can happen, but the main reason is down to wear and tear after years of driving. Therefore, if you observe a slipping clutch then it really is time to have it replaced.
  
  
• Clutch Burnt
  If your car emits a burning odor which is similar to burnt rubber smell, this is an indication that your clutch is overheating and your clutch plate is beginning to wear and tear. This is particularly prevalent in slow-moving traffic and is caused by riding the clutch.
  
  The other cause might be the use of half clutch. When the clutch is half depressed, it will just rub against the flywheel producing heat. This causes slippage between the flywheel and the clutch lining. A strong odor will appear when the friction heats up. This symptom is actually not a problem but the effect of using a half clutch. But this will certainly shorten the lifespan of your clutch. To overcome this, try to stop the vehicle when a stench starts to smell. Minimizing the use of half clutch can make your clutch more durable.
  
  The only method to fix a burnt clutch is to replace it if something goes worse. There is no way to replace the clutch plate once it has become worn and maybe broken. The flywheel and other clutch parts may be damaged if the clutch plate has been left to burn and slip for a long time.
  
  
• Stiff Clutch
  Most drivers might experience this problem on their vehicle. Not only does it make your leg ‘stiff’ for working extra hard, but the stiffness may also distract you while driving. There are a few potential grounds for this problem.
  
  The first thing that needs to be checked is your entire clutch cable. It may be worn out over time or need to be especially treated with lubrication. After the cable is lubricated, you also need to set the cable and adjust it to your convenience. Another potential cause is a worn-out clutch disc, which in the long term can create more serious problems to different components in the car, even the engine. Other than the clutch disc, there may also be problems with the clutch cover. During inspection, make sure you check the condition of these components. A worn-out clutch cover will weaken the pressure plate. Like the clutch disc, a clutch cover needs to be replaced when damaged. You can call a mechanic to replace it and to make sure the new one is assembled correctly.
  
  Defects in the release bearing unit is another possible problem. It may be worn-out because of constant use which will weaken the diaphragm spring. Consequently, the compression spring will experience excessive wear and the release bearing must be replaced, making it unable to be repaired. Last but not least, a stiff clutch may be caused by your driving habit. For example, keeping your foot down on the pedal while the car accelerates. This habit may hasten the damage in the clutch disc and other components in the transmission system. To ensure the components of your car last their lifetime, always press and release the pedal gently.
  
  Just like other car components, the clutch must also be cared for properly in order to function properly. If there is a problem with the clutch of the vehicle, it can result in an accident while driving. So, do regular maintenance and immediately replace the car clutch lining if it has run out or is thinning so that the car's performance remains optimal. Check the latest clutch facing products for your vehicle here.