How Can I Make My Car's Clutch Last Longer?

To make your car's clutch last longer, avoid riding the clutch, especially in stop-start traffic, and use proper clutch control. When driving in hilly areas, practice good hill start techniques. Downshifting smoothly and not holding the clutch down at traffic lights will also help reduce wear on the clutch.

Why Is It Important Not To Ride The Clutch In Traffic?

Riding the clutch, particularly in heavy traffic, creates unnecessary friction on the clutch plates, leading to faster wear. Instead, put the car into neutral when stopped at traffic lights or in queues to prevent damaging the clutch components.

Does Proper Clutch Control Help Extend The Clutch's Life?

Yes, mastering clutch control, especially in situations like hill starts and slow-moving traffic, can greatly extend the life of the clutch. By finding the biting point carefully and avoiding slipping the clutch unnecessarily, you reduce strain on the clutch components.

Should I Avoid Holding The Clutch Pedal Down at Traffic Lights?

Yes, when stopped at traffic lights or in queues, it's better to shift into neutral and release the clutch. Holding the clutch down for long periods puts strain on the clutch release bearing and can wear it out prematurely.

Can Changing Down A Gear Incorrectly Cause Clutch Wear?

Yes, changing down a gear (downshifting) without matching the engine's speed or doing it too abruptly can increase wear on the clutch. Smooth gear changes and rev-matching help preserve the clutch and prevent unnecessary wear.

Does Towing Affect The Clutch's Lifespan?

Yes, towing can put extra strain on the clutch, especially during hill starts or when manoeuvring at slow speeds. UK drivers should be aware of their vehicle's legal towing limits and take care when engaging the clutch to avoid excessive wear.

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Your car’s clutch can last anywhere from 30,000 to 100,000 miles with proper maintenance.

Adjusting your driving habits and your approach to car maintenance can make a real difference to the health of your clutch.

Take a look at our 7 tips for staving off costly repairs and keeping your clutch in good condition for longer.

Page Contents

How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Clutch
What Causes Clutch Wear and Tear?

How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Clutch

When working well, the clutch is a vital component that lets you shift gears smoothly and efficiently.

That’s why it’s so important that you take care of your clutch by bearing these tips in mind, so that you can improve your vehicle’s performance and drivability.

Don't Ride the Clutch

Riding the clutch – AKA keeping the clutch partly depressed whilst driving – is one of the most common ways that people wear out their car’s clutch.

Whilst this can make it feel like you are better prepared to change gears, all you’re doing is actually eroding the clutch.

Even light pressure on the clutch pedal can generate friction with the clutch plate, which will wear your clutch away over time.

Top Up the Clutch Reservoir

If there isn’t enough fluid in the reservoir, then your clutch won’t work properly.

The clutch reservoir is under the bonnet and needs to be topped up regularly to ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive.

Without adequate fluid, you won’t be able to press on the clutch pedal, which could make gear changes more of a challenge in an emergency.

You should top up the brake fluid to just below the cap of the reservoir.

If you have to top up the fluid levels more often, have a mechanic look at your car to check there isn’t an underlying issue which needs to be addressed.

Clutch fluid – which is basically the same as brake fluid, but kept in the clutch master cylinder – should be replenished every 20,000 miles or 2 years.

If your gear movements have slowed down or become less responsive, your clutch fluid may need to be refilled.

Clutch problems can sometimes relate to issues with the gearbox, so you may require a gearbox repair instead.

A professional mechanic will be able to diagnose the issue for you.

Drive, Shift and Stop Gently

You may not realise in the moment, but the longer you take to carry out a gear change, the more strain you’ll be placing on the clutch disc.

Try to engage and disengage the clutch carefully, and only when absolutely necessary.

Aim to maintain a constant speed, master clutch control and avoid unnecessary gear changes, too.

Don't Overload Your Car

Is it time for a clear out? Next time you go to clean your car, consider emptying the boot as well.

Excess weight can put extra strain on vital components like the clutch and tyres.

Listen Out for Strange Noises

Any changes in your vehicle’s behaviour can signal that something’s wrong.

Every week, take time to drive without the radio on so that you can listen out for any unusual sounds coming from the clutch or car.

If you hear a high-pitched squeaking when you press the pedal, there could be an issue with the clutch release of throw-out bearings.

Juddering or jolting movements should also be noted, as this could be a sign that the clutch needs to be fixed.

Pay special attention when changing gear or parking so that you can avoid a costly clutch replacement later down the line.

Use the Handbrake on Hills

For new drivers, hill starts can be particularly stressful.

By using the handbrake and not solely relying on the clutch to keep you in place on a hill, you can prevent excessive wear and tear.

Revving too much can cause the clutch pedal to become ineffective, so you should put the handbrake on when it’s appropriate to do so when performing an uphill start.

Try not to overuse the clutch, as this can lead to a build-up of heat and can even cause the clutch to burn out entirely.