Is Your Clutch Too Hard or Too Easy When Pressed? Here’s Why

Clutch troubles can be hard to diagnose, especially because the clutch tends to go bad over time. But wait too long to get clutch repair in Amarillo, TX and you could end up stranded or worse. So how do you know what’s wrong with your clutch and when to get it fixed? Two common signs that something is wrong with your clutch is if it starts to feel soft or spongy or, on the other side, stiff or hard. If you’re experiencing either of these issues, let’s take a look at what the problem could be.

Clutch feels soft or too easy to press

If your clutch is starting to feel soft or too easy to press, there are several possible causes:

• Leaking hose or fitting: The hose from the brake fluid reservoir to the clutch master cylinder may be leaking. Check for leaks from the fittings at the clutch master cylinder and the line from the clutch master cylinder down to the slave cylinder.
• Low brake fluid: Fluid in the brake reservoir may have dropped below the level of the hose going to the clutch master cylinder. Fill the brake fluid reservoir, bleed the clutch and see if it still feels soft after filling.
• Clutch master cylinder or slave cylinder is bad: The master or slave cylinder can fail due to an internal or external seal leak. If the master cylinder and/or slave cylinder is leaking, the clutch will need to be replaced or rebuilt.
• Air in the system: Air in the system is often caused by low brake fluid. Check the brake fluid, fill if necessary and then bleed the clutch.

Clutch feels stiff or too hard to press

A clutch that feels stiff or is difficult to press is another common clutch problem. Below are a few reasons why you may be experiencing this issue:

• Sticking or binding in the system: If there is sticking or binding occurring in the pedal linkage, pivot ball, cable or cross shaft, this can cause your clutch to feel stiff when pressure is applied.
• Hydraulic system block: A blockage or worn seals in the hydraulic system can also make your clutch feel stiff or difficult to press.
• Clutch master cylinder or slave cylinder is bad: Similar to a clutch that is too soft, a bad master cylinder or slave cylinder can cause your clutch to feel too hard as well.

No matter what the culprit is, clutch problems should never be ignored. Continuing to drive your vehicle when there’s a problem with the clutch will only make the problem worse. Plus, if your clutch goes out while you’re driving, you could end up stranded or, even worse, in an accident. For fast and affordable clutch repair in Amarillo, TX, call the experts at Arenas Transmissions today. We specialize in clutch repair and will have your clutch fixed and get you back on the road in no time. We look forward to assisting you soon!

Categorised in: Clutch Repair

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