What To Do If Your Clutch Smells Like It’s Burning?

Is your clutch smelling like it’s burning, and you’re wondering what could be the cause? Well, you’ve come to the right place. At Chloe’s Auto Repair and Tire, we’ve seen it all and fixed it all when it comes to clutch issues, so we know a thing or two about the causes of a burning smell coming from the clutch. We are a reputable auto repair and tire shop offering a wide range of services, including clutch repair.

Let’s look at the possible causes of a burning clutch smell.

Clutch Slipping

A slipping clutch refers to a faulty condition in which the clutch engages and disengages constantly because the friction disc is not firmly held against the flywheel. When your clutch is slipping, what’s really happening is that no power is being delivered to the wheels. Clutch slippage is caused by a worn-out friction disc, or damaged clutch plates. A slipping clutch can cause a burning smell and other problems.

Clutch Lining Friction Material Overheating

Clutch slippage can damage the clutch lining friction material and cause the clutch lining rivets to grind against the clutch pressure plate and engine flywheel. This can also cause overheating and a burning clutch smell.

Driving Techniques

Bad driving techniques such as putting pressure on the clutch once the car is in gear can cause the clutch to produce a burning smell. Another bad driving technique that can cause the clutch to give off a burning smell is driving with either your clutch fully down or your vehicle in neutral. This technique is known as "coasting in neutral. "

Overloading of Vehicle

Hauling too much weight with your vehicle can put too much strain on the clutch and cause it to burn. When your clutch has to work harder to move the extra weight, it will overheat and cause a burning smell. Overloading your vehicle is never worth it because the risks far outweigh the benefits.

Seal Leaks

Another common cause of a burning clutch smell is seal leaks, which are caused by normal clutch wear and tear. As a clutch deteriorates over time, the seals may crack and allow transmission fluid to leak out, thereby causing the clutch to burn out. You can tell if your transmission is leaking fluid if you notice grinding gears, clunking sounds, a delay in acceleration, and strange vibrations.

Rely On Chloe’s Auto Repair and Tire for Clutch Repair Service

If you notice a burning smell coming from the clutch, schedule clutch repair service with a trusted auto repair shop as soon as possible to avoid more expensive problems. The longer you leave the problem unaddressed, the more damage you’ll have to deal with over time. At Chloe’s Auto Repair and Tire, we take pride in offering dependable clutch repair service and many other auto repair services.

You’ll know you need clutch repair service if you notice the following telltale signs:

• Difficulty shifting gears
• Weak acceleration
• Low transmission fluid
• Sticky clutch pedal
• Engine revving

If you notice any of these signs, reach out to a nearby auto repair shop.