new clutch for a 5 speed??

[tkim]

how often (after how many miles) do you need to change a clutch? i'm moving on my own to sf form la and i wont be able to have my cousin look at it and i dont want to pay bay area prices. i have about 65000 miles on the original and i guess i am an excited driver. any guesses?

 

[Zenmervolt]

I'm pretty sure that a clutch lasts between 60,000 and 100,000 miles, with either extreme being rather rare. Clutch life is highly dependant upon driving style, and it is very hard to give a specific service life.

Zenmervolt

 

[tkim]

how can you tell its time for a new one? atleast before it falls out as crackers in the driveway when you pull it apart.

 

[vi edit]

Totally depends upon a) your driving and b) the durability of the clutch.

I've had an old Ford Ranger that got over 170,000 miles on the same clutch, and on the other hand, I've seen some hot rodding teen agers in a firebird rip through a brand new clutch in about 20,000 miles.

 

Do you do alot of highway driving or city driving?
My car was used for a few years on the highway mainly, and the clutch lasted 120K.
But since its been in the suburbs for daily work driving, Ive had it replaced after 70K.

 

[Wingznut]

Generally you cannot tell, until it starts slipping. By then, you need a new one very soon.

 

[bcterps]

You'll find the gears slipping when you try to shift into them. I had my clutch replaced on my 1990 Honda Accord at about 90,000 miles.

--Ben

 

[monckywrench]

I suggest doing a complete lookover, to include timing belt replacement if your engine uses one. Good time to swap belts and hoses too.Clutch kits are reasonable, so you could swap it if you wish. I see no great reason to rush, but if it's convenient and inexpensive to get it done by a trustworthy mechanic go for it.

 

[tkim]

what does it exactly feel like when your clutch slips? btw, thanks for all the guys!

 

[Wingznut]

You apply the gas, the engine revs, but the car doesn't go any faster. You'll know when you feel it.

If you barely push in on the clutch now, you can simulate it.

 

[Farbio]

when your clutch slips, u will engage a gear completely and the engine will rev, but the car will not accelerate quickly...kind of a disturbing feeling the first time it happens.

btw, my clutch on my accord is oem after 160k miles

 

[bobtist]

Clutch slippage sucks, sometimes (when it gets bad) it will be accompanied with a wonderful BURNT CLUTCH SMELL. It's pretty awful. I had some fun with mine when it started getting bad... Complete clutch side-steps at red lights, that kinda' stuff... Not good for the car, but fun.

 

[Doggiedog]

Or, your car is in gear and suddenly your RPM goes up but you lose power.

 

Here is the standard test for clutch wear;
Depress clutch
Engage reverse
Quickly engage first

If there is any grinding going into first or it does not want to go in immediately your clutch is on it's way

Another indicator is where the clutch starts to grab
Generally most clutches grab anywhere from 1/2 inch to 1 1/4 inches off the floor
If your clutch grabs at the top of the pedal stroke,it is almost time for replacement