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5 Signs Your Clutch Needs Repair ASAP (And How to Spot Them)!

Audi Repair & ServiceHave you ever heard squeaking or grumbling when you press the clutch pedal? Or did changing the gear feel so tricky? These are all signs that your car’s clutch may need repairs.

While these are not the only signs you’ll get, this post is about the five significant signs that indicate an issue with your car’s clutch. So, when you notice any of these signs, ensure you bring the car in for immediate clutch repairs to avoid further damage and resume comfortable driving!

How Euro Automotive Can Help

Euro Automotive is a European car dealer alternative dedicated to providing quality repair, replacement, and maintenance services to European car owners.

Our team includes skilled, ASE-certified technicians with a combined experience of 70 years in clutch repairs and other related work. We know these signs and what to do to ensure everything is in proper working condition.

Other reasons to choose Euro Automotive include:

  • Over 20 years of experience
  • Average savings of at least 25% off of dealers’ maintenance costs
  • Factory-trained and certified mechanics
  • BBB accredited business
  • We feature factory-grade auto parts for all repairs, eliminating any need for a middleman or third-party vendor

As a BBB-accredited business, we offer the best alternative to the dealership no matter what issues your car is having.

The Major Signs of a Faulty Clutch

So, what are the five (5) significant things that could show the need for immediate clutch repair?

  • Difficulty shifting gears: Usually, changing gears should be a breeze as long as you have engaged the clutch. But if it feels like the gear is stiff, resisting, or making a grinding noise, then something’s wrong. Don’t ignore this or delay repairs; get your car to a mechanic immediately.
  • Soft/Sticking clutch: If the pedal feels too soft or spongy, it’s another major sign that the clutch is worn and needs replacement. Similarly, if the clutch is sticking to the floor of your car (not coming back up), it’s also a huge sign that something’s wrong.
  • Slipping clutch: Have you ever tried accelerating, and it feels like your car is dragging even though the engine’s revving? This means that the clutch is slipping (not engaging enough friction). In this case, you should take your car to a mechanic for immediate clutch repair.
  • Vibrating or chattering clutch: Besides a clutch that makes grinding noises, if it makes a chattering sound or seems to be vibrating, this is another huge sign that something’s wrong.
  • Burning smell: As the final significant sign, if you perceive a burning smell, almost like a burning toast, this is a sign that the clutch plate is overheating due to excessive friction. In this case, drive straight to a mechanic for immediate inspection and clutch repairs.

We Serve Luxury European Brands

Our team is vast in the repairs of many brands, including:

No matter the problem, contact us at Euro Automotive, and we’ll get you the quality help you need for your car.

The Risks of Ignoring Clutch Repairs

Driving with a faulty clutch may affect other car parts and worsen the problems. For instance, if you hear a grinding noise when you shift gears, the clutch disc is engaged, which in turn causes the transmission input shaft to keep spinning. When this continues for a long time, it can damage the car’s transmission system, giving you more to worry about.

In the same way, the burning smell may escalate and damage another component of the car, risking the car’s performance on the road. Therefore, it is best always to prioritize clutch repairs, especially when you see these signs. If you cannot drive in for repairs immediately, do so as soon as possible to avoid more damage to the car.

Clutch Repair FAQs

While a clutch may develop issues for many reasons, the most common problem stems from incorrect gear changes. Other reasons for a faulty clutch are wear and tear. That’s why it is essential to have a clutch replaced every 30,000 - 70,000 miles, depending on your driving habits.

While your clutch always gives you signs before it fails, it can suddenly stop working if you ignore them for too long.


Generally, it is best never to ignore clutch warning signs. That’s why we recommend driving to a professional mechanic as soon as you notice these signs. Lucky for you, we at Euro Automotive have over 20 years of serving drivers in surrounding cities of:

So, what are you waiting for? Our shop is fully equipped with the latest factory-grade tools and equipment to ensure we provide your car with the most accurate clutch services and repairs possible!

Call Us Today!